UCLA Emerges as Frontrunner to Land Former Tennessee Star QB Nico Iamaleava
In what could be a major coup for UCLA football, the Bruins have emerged as an early frontrunner to land former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava. The Southern California native entered the transfer portal Saturday after a high-profile split with the Volunteers over NIL compensation.
Iamaleava, who stands at an imposing 6’6″ and 215 pounds, would provide an immediate upgrade at quarterback for a UCLA program looking to make noise in its second season under head coach DeShaun Foster. After leading Tennessee to the inaugural 12-team College Football Playoff in his first season as a starter, Iamaleava brings proven talent and significant upside to whichever program secures his services.
Why UCLA Makes Sense
The Bruins present a natural landing spot for several compelling reasons. As a Long Beach native, Iamaleava would be returning to familiar territory in Southern California, potentially a significant factor in his decision-making process.
UCLA also has perhaps the most glaring quarterback need among potential suitors. The Bruins brought in Appalachian State transfer Joey Aguilar this offseason, but Iamaleava would represent a clear talent upgrade and potential program-changing addition.
The move would follow UCLA’s recent aggressive approach in the NIL marketplace. The basketball program made headlines last month by landing former New Mexico star Donovan Dent for a package reportedly worth around $3 million. This suggests UCLA has both the financial capability and willingness to make significant NIL investments for elite talent.
Financial Considerations
The financial aspect remains the most significant hurdle. Reports indicate Iamaleava’s camp was seeking approximately $4 million annually from Tennessee, nearly double his original NIL deal. Whether UCLA can meet or approach those financial expectations remains to be seen.
Sources close to the situation suggest UCLA is actively working to assemble a competitive NIL package. The program’s recent move to the Big Ten provides additional revenue streams and exposure that could help facilitate such an arrangement.
Competition for Iamaleava’s Services
While UCLA appears to be an early frontrunner, several other programs could enter the mix for Iamaleava’s services:
USC presents another Southern California option, though the Trojans already have a capable starter in Jayden Maiava. Lincoln Riley’s track record with transfer quarterbacks makes USC a program to watch.
Notre Dame, coming off a national championship appearance, has an unsettled quarterback situation that could be immediately solidified by adding Iamaleava.
North Carolina could be a surprise contender, offering Iamaleava a chance to play for first-year college coach Bill Belichick.
Oregon also has connections to Iamaleava from his high school recruitment, though the Ducks appear set with Dante Moore at quarterback.
What’s Next
Iamaleava is expected to take his time with the decision, understanding the significant implications for his career and the considerable financial aspects involved.
For UCLA, landing a talent of Iamaleava’s caliber would represent a statement signing for Foster’s program. It would not only address their most pressing roster need but also signal UCLA’s intent to be a major player in college football’s new NIL-driven landscape as they establish themselves in the Big Ten.
The Southern California native threw for 2,616 yards with 19 touchdowns against just 5 interceptions last season while posting a respectable 70.5 QBR. Those numbers, combined with his tremendous physical tools and potential for further development, make him perhaps the most coveted transfer quarterback in recent memory.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on UCLA to see if they can bring the former five-star recruit back to his home state for what would be a transformative addition to their program.
