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Nearly two weeks have gone by since Tennessee’s head coach, Josh Heupel, confirmed that quarterback Nico Iamaleava will not be returning to the Volunteers for the upcoming season. Following this announcement, Iamaleava disclosed his decision to transfer to UCLA for the 2025 season.
With Iamaleava’s move to UCLA, he might be joined by a familiar face. His brother, Madden Iamaleava, who plays quarterback at Warren, is reportedly set to follow in his sibling’s footsteps by transferring to Los Angeles. According to reports from On3, Madden plans to change his commitment from Arkansas to UCLA.
UCLA QUARTERBACK JOEY AGUILAR TRANSFERS TO TENNESSEE AFTER NICO IAMALEAVA’S MOVE FROM VOLS TO BRUINS: REPORT
Nico Iamaleava was ranked as the 22nd best quarterback in the 2025 high school class by 247 Sports and earned a four-star rating. His choice not to play for Arkansas could have significant implications, especially amidst reports regarding the school’s name, image, and likeness (NIL) policies. Front Office Sports revealed that Arkansas has sent demand letters to players insisting they comply with buyout clauses.
According to a source, the Arkansas NIL collective is reportedly pursuing around $200,000 from Madden Iamaleava following his decision to transfer. Reports suggest that this situation stems from multiple players leaving the program before fulfilling their NIL contract obligations. The athletic director’s comments indicated that the letters targeted several players, including Madden.
Nico’s departure from Tennessee was partly attributed to his decision to forego practice amidst negotiations related to his NIL contract. Iamaleava had a lucrative deal reportedly worth $2.4 million, although initial estimates suggested its total value could reach approximately $10 million. This contract was signed while he was still in high school and likely provided an initial payment upon his enrollment.
During the 2024 season with the Volunteers, he recorded impressive statistics, passing for 2,616 yards along with 19 touchdowns and just five interceptions.
Meanwhile, UCLA struggled through the 2024 season, finishing with a disappointing 5-7 record in their inaugural year in the Big Ten Conference.
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