The biggest shock of the spring transfer window is here – Tennessee is officially moving on from quarterback Nico Iamaleava, setting up one of the most intriguing storylines in college football.
The move comes just days before the spring transfer period begins on April 16. Iamaleava did not attend practice on Friday as reports surfaced of ongoing NIL contract discussions. By Saturday, sources told ESPN that Tennessee had decided to part ways with its starting quarterback.
Iamaleava threw for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns in 2024, adding 358 rushing yards and three more scores on the ground. With another productive season, he could declare early for the NFL Draft – but where he lands next will play a massive role in that outcome.
While his talent is undeniable, Iamaleava might not find another program with the same combination of offensive talent and quarterback-friendly scheme that Tennessee provided. The former four-star recruit ranked No. 23 in the 2023 ESPN 300 and has elite physical tools. But his resume, while promising, may not yet justify a massive jump in NIL market value.
If he does leave Knoxville, here are three of the best fits for Iamaleava in the transfer portal:
USC Trojans
Few schools make more sense for Iamaleava than USC.
The Trojans are surging in recruiting with the No. 1 2026 class and have the financial backing to compete with any program in the NIL market. Iamaleava, from Downey, California, would be a homegrown star for Lincoln Riley, who has built a reputation for maximizing high-profile quarterbacks.
USC returns Jayden Maiava at quarterback, with Husan Longstreet and transfer Sam Huard providing depth – but Iamaleava would be a clear upgrade over all three.
Offensively, the Trojans lost stars like Duce Robinson and Zachariah Branch to the portal but return Ja’Kobi Lane and Makai Lemon at wide receiver. The offensive line has key pieces back, though questions remain at right tackle.
With an overhauled defense and pressure mounting on Riley to deliver a conference title or playoff berth, Iamaleava would step into a high-profile role with a chance to shine in the Big Ten.
Notre Dame Fighting Irish
Notre Dame would offer Iamaleava the chance to lead a national title contender.
The Irish have a quarterback competition featuring Steve Angeli, CJ Carr, and Kenny Minchey, but Iamaleava‘s experience would immediately make him the most proven option.
Notre Dame has the personnel to support a top-tier quarterback. Virginia transfer Malachi Fields adds firepower at receiver, while Jeremiyah Love returns to anchor the run game. The offensive line is experienced, with Anthonie Knapp entering his sophomore season as a potential breakout star.
Coming off a national championship appearance, Notre Dame has both the roster and the stage for Iamaleava to boost his draft stock and compete for a title.
UCLA Bruins
While not as loaded as other options, UCLA offers an intriguing homecoming opportunity for Iamaleava.
New head coach DeShaun Foster is looking to reload after a strong finish to the 2024 season. The Bruins would need to be aggressive in the NIL market to lure Iamaleava, but the chance to lead a California-based program might appeal to the former four-star recruit.
UCLA has significant roster holes. Defensive stars like Kain Medrano and Carson Schwesinger are gone, along with key offensive contributors. Quarterback Joey Aguilar arrives from Appalachian State and is expected to start, but Iamaleava would challenge him immediately.
The biggest draw for Iamaleava might be new offensive coordinator Tino Sunseri, who helped Indiana reach the College Football Playoff in 2024. If the Bruins can upgrade their supporting cast, UCLA could offer Iamaleava both playing time and development.
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