The Nico Iamaleava and Tennessee situation is now in the past, but it was one of the most drama-filled weeks ever after he decided to leave the program in such a controversial way. Iamaleava was set to lead the Volunteers for the second year in a row, but due to either financial issues or offensive line concerns, he ultimately decided to take his talents elsewhere.
“I am told — moments ago — Nico Iamaleava is going to UCLA. Family still claims it’s NOT about the money, It’s about the Vol Football offense. I was not told what the Bruins are paying,” Colin Cowherd posted.
The Vols have one of the best offensive-minded coaches in the country, so that reasoning doesn’t seem entirely logical, but it could have been the truth. Iamaleava was under a lot of pressure, but the Vols made some offseason moves to help improve their offensive line. During the entire ordeal, Iamaleava was getting thrown under the bus.
“If I'm a UFL team, I'd reach out to Nico Iamaleava to gauge his interest in signing. Because, at this point, the bridge may be burned in CFB,” Emory Hunt wrote.
Iamaleava entered the portal when it opened with a “do not contact” tag, which made it clear he was likely going to end up back home. A few days later, he announced that he would be taking his talents to UCLA. His commitment to the Bruins caused UCLA to be labeled as a major transfer portal winner.
“The drama and controversy over Iamaleava’s exit from Tennessee has overshadowed the impact his arrival will have on UCLA. After coming up one win shy of bowl eligibility in coach DeShaun Foster’s debut, the Bruins’ addition of Iamaleava pushes them into the second tier of Big Ten teams fighting for seven or more wins during the regular season,” Paul Myerberg wrote.
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Ultimately, the entire controversy led to a game-changing addition for the Bruins and second-year head coach DeShaun Foster. Iamaleava is expected to help the Bruins become bowl-eligible for the first time since 2021.