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2w ago

Tennessee Cuts Ties with Nico Iamaleava Over NIL Dispute

The quarterback's no-show at practice and contract renegotiation efforts led to his removal from the program as Tennessee emphasizes team unity.

FILE - Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava throws to a receiver during the first half of an NCAA college football game against Alabama, Saturday, Oct. 19, 2024, in Knoxville, Tenn. (AP Photo/Wade Payne, File)
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Overview

  • Nico Iamaleava has been officially removed from the Tennessee football roster after missing practice and failing to communicate with the coaching staff on Friday.
  • The quarterback was reportedly seeking to renegotiate his $10 million NIL deal, with indications that his camp had contacted other programs about a potential transfer.
  • Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel emphasized that no individual is bigger than the program, expressing gratitude for Iamaleava's contributions but affirming the team is moving forward.
  • The Volunteers plan to explore quarterback options in the transfer portal, with two scholarship quarterbacks currently on the roster following Iamaleava's departure.
  • Miami coach Mario Cristobal commented on the situation, warning that similar holdout behavior would not be tolerated at his program, reflecting broader NIL-era challenges.