Particle.news
Download on the App Store
11 ARTICLES
·
last wk.

Tennessee Releases Star QB Nico Iamaleava Over NIL Dispute

Iamaleava enters transfer portal with reduced market interest as Tennessee scrambles to replace its College Football Playoff starter.

Dec 21, 2024; Columbus, Ohio, USA; Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Nico Iamaleava (8) throws against the Ohio State Buckeyes during the second half of the College Football Playoff first round game at Ohio Stadium. Ohio State won 42-17. Mandatory Credit: Adam Cairns-Imagn Images/File photo
Image
Image
Image

Overview

  • Nico Iamaleava officially entered the NCAA transfer portal on April 16 with a 'do-not-contact' tag, signaling potential plans for his next team.
  • Iamaleava reportedly sought $4 million for the 2025 season, leading to a standoff with Tennessee, which ultimately released him on April 12.
  • Prospective programs are reportedly offering NIL deals closer to $1 million, significantly less than his prior multi-year agreement worth at least $8 million.
  • Tennessee faces significant challenges with untested quarterbacks after losing Iamaleava, prompting public criticism from Urban Meyer about the program's position.
  • Iamaleava, a projected first-round NFL talent, led Tennessee to its first College Football Playoff appearance in 2024 but now recalibrates his market value.