Tennessee Adds Transfer Ryan Staub While Searching for 2026 QB

Tennessee is still in the market for its starting quarterback for the 2026 season, having missed out on top transfer target Sam Leavitt. The Volunteers have yet to find a long-term solution to replace departing signal-caller Joey Aguilar, who finished 2025 ranked 12th nationally with 3,565 passing yards. In the meantime, the program has claimed a promising addition from the college football transfer portal in former Colorado quarterback Ryan Staub.

Staub, a redshirt sophomore with two years of eligibility remaining, officially committed to Tennessee on Sunday following a visit, ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported. The California native had flown under the radar for much of the offseason, but his combination of experience and poise in the pocket made him an attractive option for head coach Josh Heupel and his staff.

During his time at Colorado, Staub started two games in 2025 and played significant snaps in two additional contests. He entered the season in a three-way quarterback battle alongside Liberty transfer Kaidon Salter and Julian Lewis. Staub briefly emerged as the team’s most efficient passer before Salter ultimately won the starting role, and Lewis secured the job later in the season.

With his transfer to Tennessee, Staub brings both leadership and familiarity with high-level college competition. Though he has limited starting experience, he enters a Volunteers roster in need of competition and depth at the quarterback position. Tennessee is still exploring other potential options in the portal to solidify its 2026 plan under center.

1. Staub’s Experience and Potential

While Staub started only a handful of games, he still finished as Colorado’s leading passer in three contests in 2025. His time in Boulder exposed him to Pac-12 defenses and multiple offensive schemes, giving him a foundation to compete immediately at Tennessee. He offers a combination of accuracy, decision-making, and poise that could benefit a Volunteers team seeking stability under center. Staub’s redshirt sophomore season highlighted both his strengths and areas for growth. Though he did not secure a full-time starting role, he gained valuable experience in high-pressure situations, including stepping in during critical moments for Colorado. This background makes him an intriguing candidate to challenge other quarterbacks for the starting spot in Knoxville. The California native also provides depth and leadership for a young Tennessee roster. He can mentor less experienced players while acclimating to Josh Heupel’s system, which will be essential as the Volunteers continue to develop multiple quarterback options. Even if Staub does not start immediately, his presence enhances competition and readiness at the position. Staub’s addition signals Tennessee’s commitment to evaluating all options while maintaining flexibility in its quarterback search. He may serve as both a contributor and a potential bridge to a long-term starter, ensuring the program does not rush its decision at a critical position.

2. Tennessee’s Quarterback Search

The Volunteers are still actively exploring the transfer portal for potential quarterback options beyond Staub. Tennessee’s 2026 starter will need to replace Joey Aguilar, whose productive 2025 season left big shoes to fill in terms of yardage, leadership, and overall offensive production. Tennessee’s head coach, Josh Heupel, has emphasized a competitive approach to the position, encouraging multiple quarterbacks to push for playing time. This philosophy ensures that whoever wins the job enters the season battle-tested, with experience and confidence built from internal competition and transfer additions like Staub. The portal remains a critical resource for the Volunteers, particularly given the scarcity of proven talent with immediate eligibility. Heupel and his staff are weighing candidates carefully, balancing potential upside with the need for an experienced presence in the locker room. Ultimately, Tennessee’s quarterback strategy for 2026 will likely involve a mix of transfer talent and internal development. Staub’s arrival represents a step forward, but the Volunteers remain committed to finding a solution capable of sustaining high-level offensive production throughout the season.

3. Outlook for Fall 2026

Staub enters Tennessee with an opportunity to compete from day one, facing the chance to earn the starting role in a system designed to maximize his skills. His addition adds flexibility and depth, allowing Heupel to evaluate multiple options before naming a definitive starter. The Volunteers’ offense will hinge on the ability of whoever emerges at quarterback to command the huddle, execute the playbook, and build chemistry with returning skill-position players. Staub’s experience in Colorado provides a foundation for this process, even as he acclimates to a new program and coaching staff. Tennessee’s quarterback competition is likely to remain dynamic throughout spring and summer practices. By fostering a competitive environment, Heupel hopes to ensure that his starter enters the season ready to lead the team to consistent production and potential postseason success. Ultimately, Staub’s arrival is both a practical and strategic move. He adds depth and leadership while the Volunteers continue to pursue their ideal long-term solution at quarterback for 2026 and beyond.