BREAKING NEWS: Tennessee Vols Reward Superstar Joey Aguila $3.6 Million ‘Royalty Bonus’ After Rejecting Mega Offers From Georgia Despite Rumors He Sign 8 Years Deal With An Option to…….

In a dramatic move that solidifies their commitment to building a championship-caliber team, the Tennessee Volunteers have awarded superstar quarterback Joey Aguila a surprise $3.6 million “royalty bonus” after he turned down multiple high-value offers from rival SEC programs — most notably from the Georgia Bulldogs.

The 21-year-old Aguila, who became a household name last season after leading the Vols to an SEC East title and a Peach Bowl win, has reportedly declined a series of aggressive Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) pitches that could have lured him out of Knoxville. According to sources close to the program, Georgia was prepared to offer Aguila a package rumored to exceed $6 million annually, making the decision to stay in Tennessee both stunning and admirable in today’s high-stakes college football landscape.

But the reward was swift and sizable. Tennessee boosters and athletic department officials, eager to send a message about loyalty and legacy, announced this morning that Aguila would receive a one-time $3.6 million “royalty bonus,” structured through a mix of NIL deals, brand endorsements, and long-term equity partnerships with local and national sponsors.

“This isn’t just a bonus — it’s an investment in a legacy,” said Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel in a press conference. “Joey turned down more money because he believes in this team, this fan base, and the future we’re building here. That’s the kind of leadership you can’t put a price on — but we tried.”

Rumors have also swirled around Aguila potentially signing an unprecedented eight-year NIL extension with Tennessee’s collective, a move that would likely be the longest and most complex NIL commitment in college football history. Insiders claim the deal includes a flexible opt-out clause starting in Year 5, allowing Aguila to pursue NFL opportunities or further endorsements while maintaining financial security and brand equity at the collegiate level.

Though the long-term deal has yet to be officially confirmed by the university, multiple trusted sources within the SEC media sphere have said the contract is “all but done,” pending final legal reviews.

Aguila, speaking briefly outside the practice facility this morning, downplayed the money and instead emphasized the importance of loyalty and unfinished business.

“I’ve got goals here,” Aguila said. “I came to Tennessee to build something special. We’re not done yet. Money’s cool — but rings matter more.”

The reaction from fans has been overwhelming. Social media erupted in celebration following the announcement, with “Joey Loyalty” trending nationwide on X (formerly Twitter) by midday. Former Tennessee greats, including Peyton Manning, have privately expressed support for Aguila’s decision, according to university officials.

Aguila’s return all but cements the Vols as a top-three preseason favorite for the 2025 season, with analysts pointing to continuity and elite leadership as major factors in Tennessee’s rise.

With fall camp just weeks away, the Vols have done more than just retain their star — they’ve sent a message across college football: loyalty, legacy, and excellence are alive and thriving in Knoxville.