As the reports come in lightning quick that Tennessee is moving on from their quarterback Nico Iamaleava, the question presents itself as to what are the top landing options for the $3.1 million NIL-valued QB.
As per reports, Josh Heupel already informed the team that they are moving forward without Iamaleava. However, Heupel did not address the matter publicly. As he missed training on Friday night, the rumor pretty much became exclusive news.
While it is indeed sad news for Vols fans, the bigger question is: what are the top landing spots for the quarterback?
Nico Iamaleava’s Top 5 Landing Spots
There are more than 5 landing spots for the $3.1 million NIL-valued QB. Here are the five best landing spots:
Sources: Tennessee is moving on from starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava. Tennessee coach Josh Heupel informed the team of the decision at a team meeting this morning. Iamaleava missed meetings and practice on Friday, which was the driver of this decision. pic.twitter.com/BsdhJMDXiz
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) April 12, 2025
5. UCLA Bruins
While UCLA Brains are interested in Iamaleava, there are a few hurdles that might prevent it from working out. As of last campaign, UCLA’s offensive line play was way worse than the struggle of Tennessee.
Even though there are 4 transfers brought in to get started with rebuilding, Iamaleava’s camp will not like the situation at all. Moreover, the price is a big concern as well. All in all, Iamaleava’s possibility to play for a team that is not competing at the highest levels is very low.
4. USC Trojans
Along with UCLA, USC is also keen on the services of the quarterback. With the presence of Lincoln Riley, there’s a strong argument as to why USC can be a winner’s pick.
While the team brought in a couple of offensive linemen after losing their main man, the signs do not point towards a strong trench play on offense. So, more likely, the quarterback might steer clear from USC.
3. Oregon Ducks
Since December, there has been a lot of back and forth from the Oregon Ducks regarding the options for their quarterback situation.
While previously a possibility of Iamaleava was denied, there’s no doubt that he will be an upgrade for them, even though they are leaning a little bit on Dante Moore. Moreover, the money is not an issue as well.
2. Ohio State Buckeyes
Their offensive line play is one of the most compelling reasons as to why Iamaleava might lean more towards them. They are fresh off a national championship, but the biggest hurdle is that the team already has more than one talented quarterback.
KEEP READING: ‘NFL Won’t Touch This Guy’: CFB World Blames Nico Iamaleava’s $4M Tennessee Demand as Transfer Portal Becomes Reality
However, if Ryan Day considers a more experienced quarterback for the Buckeyes, Iamaleava is the name that’ll come up first.
1. Texas Tech Red Raiders
They have the highest possibility to land Iamaleava. There are rumors that the interest in the quarterback is not the first time for the Texas Tech Red Raiders.
The Red Raiders already had a promising passing attack in 2024. There have been steps taken to ramp up the NIL collective funding for the Red Raiders. So much so, getting Iamaleava and his camp would not be a problem at all for Texas Tech.
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