Nico Iamaleava Expected to Transfer from Tennessee to UCLA

Former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava is set to transfer to UCLA, generating significant buzz for the Bruins as they look to rebuild at the quarterback position following recent departures. Iamaleava's move comes after a falling out with Tennessee, reportedly involving dissatisfaction about team support and failed attempts to renegotiate his NIL deal, which would have paid him up to $10 million over four years. UCLA, which lost its previous starters, is expected to welcome Iamaleava despite not matching the compensation he sought at Tennessee. The transfer has sparked debate, with some viewing Iamaleava's camp as having overplayed their hand in negotiations, while others close to the player insist the decision was driven by considerations beyond money. Iamaleava, a Long Beach native, will have three years of eligibility with the Bruins, and his addition is seen as a key move for a UCLA team seeking to regain competitiveness. His departure from Tennessee has been described as abrupt, with the program's coach emphasizing that no individual—regardless of talent—is bigger than the team.