The fluidity of the UCLA Bruins quarterback landscape continues, exemplified by recent developments in the transfer portal. Following Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava’s official transfer to UCLA football on Sunday, the Bruins are now set to lose Joey Aguilar, who had previously transferred to the program during the offseason.
Aguilar informed ESPN’s Pete Thamel of his intention to re-enter the portal on Monday morning, seeking an opportunity to start in his final season of eligibility.
UCLA Bruins Now Set To Lose QB
Aguilar’s commitment to UCLA in December appeared to position him as a strong contender to succeed 2024 starter Ethan Garbers, who has exhausted his eligibility. Aguilar arrived from Appalachian State, where he had demonstrated his capabilities by throwing for 3,000 yards in each of his two seasons with the Mountaineers.
Aguilar’s collegiate journey began at Diablo Valley Community College in California before his transfer to App State two years ago. During his tenure with the Mountaineers, he led the team to a 14-11 record, amassing 6,760 passing yards, 56 touchdowns, and 24 interceptions. He also contributed 456 rushing yards and five touchdowns.
Iamaleava’s commitment to the UCLA Bruins had resulted in a crowded quarterback room, with nine quarterbacks on the roster before Aguilar decided to transfer. Iamaleava’s departure from Tennessee stemmed from a missed practice before the Vols’ spring game, amid reported negotiations concerning his NIL deal, further illustrating the complexities of player movement in the current college football environment.