UCLA Quarterback Nico Iamaleava Denies NIL Dispute in Transfer from Tennessee

Nico Iamaleava, a highly touted college quarterback, has clarified that his transfer from Tennessee to UCLA was driven primarily by family reasons rather than financial disputes over NIL compensation. Despite earlier reports suggesting he sought to double his compensation to $4 million for 2025, Iamaleava denied that money was the main factor, emphasizing his desire to be closer to his family in Long Beach, California. Tennessee chose to move on from Iamaleava after he missed a spring practice, with coach Josh Heupel acknowledging his contributions but deciding to hand the starting role to another player. UCLA’s head coach DeShaun Foster and the Bruins’ management confirmed that financial conflicts were not part of Iamaleava’s decision, noting their NIL deals are less lucrative but fostering a positive team environment. Iamaleava’s departure marked a tumultuous period for Tennessee, but he is now focused on leading UCLA, a team that struggled last season, back to contention. The quarterback’s move underscores the complex interplay of family, career, and NIL dynamics in college football today.