The UCLA Bruins suddenly find themselves at the center of controversy, thanks to being linked to the pursuit of former Tennessee Volunteers starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava.
The Vols QB was set to earn $2.4 million via Name, Image, and Likeness money in 2025, yet that wasn’t good enough. So, the 20-year-old decided to essentially hold out from spring practices, leading to his departure from Tennessee.
On Wednesday, the 6-foot-6 quarterback officially entered college football’s transfer portal. Interestingly, he entered the portal with a ‘do not contact’ tag, which usually means he’s already settled on his next team.
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UCLA Bruins win Nico Iamaleava sweepstakes
College football fans are itching to learn where Nico Iamaleava is set to play in 2025. We may already know.
According to TV personality Colin Cowherd, Iamaleava is set to play football for the UCLA Bruins this season.
“I am told — moments ago — Nico Iamaleava is going to UCLA. Family still claims it’s NOT about the money. It’s about the Tennessee offense. I was not told what the Bruins are paying.”
Colin Cowherd on Nico Iamaleava
While we’re still waiting for more reports to back up Cowherd’s claims, getting Iamaleava to commit to UCLA would be a massive development. After all, he led Tennessee to the College Football Playoff last season while helping them win 10 games.
Perhaps just as interesting will be seeing how much NIL money Iamaleava is set to make. Some analysts were skeptical that he’d be able to secure more than the $2.4 million he was set to make. Did UCLA pony up more cash?
Related: UCLA Bruins Score Big With Defensive Transfer Portal Commit From Big 10 Rival