Overview
- Iamaleava confirmed his return with an Instagram post that read, “No place like home… Locked in. Time to work.”
- The decision secures a proven starter for Chesney as he installs his staff, with former James Madison offensive coordinator Dean Kennedy set to run the offense.
- In 2025, he threw for 1,928 yards with 13 touchdowns and seven interceptions and led UCLA in rushing with 505 yards and four scores across 11 games.
- UCLA finished 3–9 during a season of coaching turnover, and Iamaleava drew praise for leadership and toughness while missing only one game.
- The move comes after last spring’s NIL dispute exit from Tennessee and before the portal opens, and he enters 2026 with two years of eligibility remaining.