UCLA has made significant strides in strengthening its football roster through the transfer portal, securing high-profile talents who promise to elevate the team’s performance in the upcoming season.
The Bruins have added quarterback Nico Iamaleava, his brother, Madden Iamaleava, and running back Jaivian Thomas, marking a transformative period for the program.
UCLA Adds Massive Firepower With Nico Iamaleava and Jaivian Thomas
Iamaleava has brought his talents from Tennessee to UCLA after a dispute over his name, image, and likeness earnings. The Volunteers’ coaching staff clashed with Iamaleava when he sought to boost his annual NIL income from $2.4 million to $4 million.
Head coach Josh Heupel declared the team would move forward without him after Iamaleava missed practice. Iamaleava entered the portal and committed to UCLA, citing his Long Beach roots and family ties as the reason to join the Bruins.’
Through an Instagram post, Iamaleava said his decision was difficult but that he believed in his path forward.
Madden Iamaleava also elected to play at UCLA after leaving his initial commitment. He spent a brief period at Arkansas before transferring to join his brother and bolster the Bruins’ depth at quarterback.
The Iamaleava brothers return to the school where they began their sports careers in Long Beach, California, fortifying UCLA’s quarterback room with experience and continuity.
UCLA’s backfield has also been strengthened with the addition of Jaivian Thomas, per On3, California’s leading rusher in 2024.
Thomas gained 626 yards and scored seven touchdowns on 100 carries, averaging 6.3 yards per carry. The Bruins ranked near the bottom nationally in rushing yards per game last season, making his arrival a critical upgrade.
Offensive Moves Signal a New Era for UCLA Football
Under coach DeShaun Foster, the acquisitions of the Iamaleava brothers and Thomas reflect a strategic shift as UCLA transitions to the Big Ten. Nico Iamaleava’s leadership and experience are expected to have an immediate impact, while Madden’s presence provides valuable depth.
Thomas’s explosive running style addresses the Bruins’ rushing deficiencies and complements their offensive scheme.
These moves have vaulted UCLA’s transfer class to No. 4 nationally, according to Rivals. As the Bruins prepare for their second season under Foster, they aim to improve on last year’s 5-7 record and establish themselves as contenders in the Big Ten.
KEEP READING: Week 2 College Football Transfer Portal Winners
With Nico and Madden forming a dynamic quarterback duo and Thomas offering a potent rushing threat, UCLA has signaled its intention to compete at the highest levels of college football.
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