The most controversial QB in college football has a new home.
Former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava has officially transferred to UCLA, returning to his Southern California roots after a high-profile departure from the Volunteers amid a dispute over NIL compensation.
Iamaleava, a former five-star recruit and Long Beach native, led Tennessee to a 10–3 record and their first-ever College Football Playoff appearance in 2024, throwing for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns. However, tensions over his NIL agreement—originally reported at $8 million—culminated in his absence from a spring practice and subsequent entry into the transfer portal with a “do not contact” designation. ​
At UCLA, Iamaleava joins a quarterback room that includes senior Ethan Garbers and Appalachian State transfer Joey Aguilar. Garbers threw for 2,727 yards with 16 touchdowns and 11 interceptions last season, while Aguilar amassed 6,740 yards, 56 touchdowns, and 24 interceptions over two seasons. The Bruins, under new head coach DeShaun Foster, are entering their first season in the Big Ten after a disappointing 5–7 record in 2024.
While UCLA’s NIL resources and proximity to Iamaleava’s hometown make the program an attractive landing spot, the move also brings scrutiny. Some analysts have expressed concerns about potential off-field distractions, citing past decommitments by Iamaleava’s brother, Madden, and the family’s involvement in previous NIL negotiations.
Nevertheless, Iamaleava’s arrival is seen as a significant boost for UCLA as they aim to revitalize their program in the competitive Big Ten landscape.​
