Former Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava finds himself in a growing mess, with his transfer future hanging in the balance. According to reports, UCLA, UNC, and Tulane have all pulled out of the race, shifting their attention to other QB targets — largely due to concerns surrounding Iamaleava’s high NIL expectations.
Sources say multiple programs are now waiting for his price to drop, wary of the financial hurdles and drama surrounding a recently reported $1.75 million NIL deal with UCLA that fell apart. That deal is said to have unraveled over tax complications and a potential half-million dollar loss, leading to internal disputes and backlash from Nico’s camp about long-term financial strategy and risk.
What was once a promising transfer saga is quickly turning into a cautionary tale — and unless something changes fast, Iamaleava could be left without a landing spot as other quarterbacks fill the boards.
