SAN ANTONIO, TX — As the 2026 college football landscape begins its spring transition, all eyes are fixed on University of the Incarnate Word (UIW) quarterback Joey Aguilar. Following a record-breaking stint at Appalachian State and a high-profile transfer, Aguilar has officially solidified his status as the premier “G5 to FCS” success story, currently projected as a rising stock for the 2027 NFL Draft.
Aguilar, who took the nation by storm in 2024 by leading the Sun Belt in passing yards (3,757) and passing touchdowns (33), has spent the last several months transforming the UIW Cardinals into a national powerhouse. His journey from a junior college standout at Riverside City College to a Division I record-holder is now being cited by scouts as the blueprint for late-blooming signal callers.
The “Aguilar Effect” in San Antonio
Since arriving in San Antonio, Aguilar has done more than just put up numbers; he has revitalized the Southland Conference’s national profile. Local analysts note that attendance at Gayle and Tom Benson Stadium has seen a 22% increase since his debut. On the field, his ability to extend plays and his signature deep-ball accuracy—which earned him the 2024 Newcomer of the Year honors in the Sun Belt—have translated seamlessly to the Cardinals’ air-raid offense.
“Joey brings a professional temperament to the locker room,” says veteran sports analyst Marcus Thorne. “He didn’t just come here to play out his eligibility; he came here to refine his mechanics. We are seeing a much more disciplined passer in 2026 than we saw two years ago in Boone.”
Draft Stock and Future Outlook
As of February 04, 2026, NFL draft boards have Aguilar listed as a “High-Value Developmental” prospect. While he lacks the prototypical 6’4″ frame of some Power 4 starters, his “gamer” mentality and statistical consistency are undeniable. In his most recent campaign, Aguilar maintained a completion percentage north of 68%, silencing critics who questioned his efficiency in high-volume passing schemes.
Key Statistics & Accolades:
- 2024 Sun Belt Passing Leader: 3,757 Yards, 33 TDs.
- App State Record Holder: Most passing yards and touchdowns in a single season.
- 2026 Outlook: Projected All-American honors and a potential invite to the Senior Bowl.
What’s Next?
With spring practices scheduled to begin next month, Aguilar is expected to lead a veteran UIW roster that many believe can contend for an FCS National Championship. For Aguilar, the goal remains singular: proving that talent isn’t defined by the size of the school, but by the production on the field.
As the 2026 season approaches, the “Joey Aguilar Era” continues to be one of the most compelling narratives in American collegiate sports, proving that the transfer portal, when navigated correctly, can turn a hidden gem into a household name.