BREAKING: Nico Iamaleava Splits with Tennessee After NIL Dispute and Alleged Demand for 2025 Bugatti Chiron
Tennessee Volunteers quarterback Nico Iamaleava has officially parted ways with the football program following a contentious dispute over his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation. The separation was confirmed by head coach Josh Heupel after Iamaleava’s unexpected absence from team meetings and practice, signaling deepening issues within the program citeturn0new
Reports indicate that Iamaleava sought to renegotiate his existing NIL deal, which was valued at $2 million annually, aiming to double the amount. This request led to a breakdown in communication with the coaching staff, culminating in his absence from practice and the team’s spring game cite
While there have been various reports about Iamaleava’s demands, including rumors of a 2025 Bugatti Chiron, these claims have not been substantiated by credible sources. The primary issue appears to be his efforts to renegotiate his NIL contract.
Iamaleava, a redshirt sophomore with three years of eligibility remaining, is now one of the most sought-after prospects in the upcoming transfer portal. During his time at Tennessee, he led the team to a College Football Playoff appearance, throwing for 2,616 yards, 19 touchdowns, and five interceptions in the 2024 season
Tennessee’s coaching staff, led by head coach Josh Heupel, is now focused on finding a new starting quarterback. With Iamaleava’s departure, redshirt freshman Jake Merklinger and true freshman George MacIntyre are the remaining scholarship quarterbacks on the roster. The team is expected to explore the transfer portal to bolster their quarterback options
Iamaleava’s next destination remains uncertain, but his talent and potential make him a highly coveted player in the transfer market.
