Shocking Move: Nico Iamaleava Transfers To UCLA

Standout Quarterback Nico Iamaleava has transferred to UCLA after a failure to increase his NIL deal with Tennessee. This move has shaken the landscape of college football at this very moment. He was considered a rising star at the University of Tennessee. After failed renegotiations on a new NIL and a failed relationship with the coaching staff, Iamaleava entered the transfer portal and is now headed to UCLA.

Nico Iamaleava’s Journey

Iamaleava was born in Long Beach, California, on September 2, 2004. His football talent was on full display at a very young age. He won awards like the 2022 Polynesian Football Player of the Year at Warren High School in Downey, California. Top colleges took an interest in his stellar high school talent.

Iamaleava’s Commitment to Tennessee

In 2022, he signed with the University of Tennessee’s football program to develop under their coaching staff. His commitment to the Volunteers was a significant accomplishment for the team. A commitment that would, in turn, pay off in some form for the team and Iamaleava.

Time At Tennessee

During the 2024 season, Iamaleava led the team to a 10-2 record and the number seven seed in the new College Football Playoff. Last season, he threw for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns. The former Tennessee quarterback began performing at a high level, gaining recognition as a rising star.

NIL Deal Saga

One significant reason for Iamaleava’s transfer was his NIL deal. Iamaleva would earn $2.4 million annually, but his representation wanted to renegotiate for a new contract worth $4 million. Negotiations did not go well, and tension rose between the two sides leading to his transfer.

Relationship With Tennessee Coaching Staff

The relationship between Iamaleava and the coaching staff worsened, affecting the transfer. His missing practice at Tennessee on April 11, 2025, was a symptom of a deeper-rooted issue. That led to Head Coach Josh Heupel choosing to move on from the quarterback.

Returning Home

His desire to return home heavily influenced his decision to transfer to UCLA. He cherished the opportunity to play close to friends and family. Being from Long Beach, California, and connecting to his home area also impacted his decision.

Impact On UCLA Football

His arrival at UCLA reshapes the depth chart of the quarterback room. As the presumed starter, his skill set and experience should change the landscape for the entire team. The Bruins are getting a dynamic player and leader. Iamaleava, who is transferring to UCLA, and his younger brother, Madden Iamaleava, will join the Bruins. “The younger Iamaleava, an Arkansas freshman quarterback, will make the move after deciding to enter the NCAA transfer portal, sources confirmed to ESPN earlier in the evening.”

Tennessee Football

After the recent departure of their former quarterback, the Volunteers turned to the transfer portal to fill the void, signing UCLA’s former Quarterback Joey Aguilar. The two teams seemingly swapped starting quarterbacks for the upcoming season. Aguilar, who recently transferred to UCLA from Appalachian State, seemed to have the inside track on the starting job. Aguilar will now look to become the starter for the Volunteers.