Cam Newton became one of the most iconic quarterbacks in college football history, particularly during his time with the Auburn Tigers. Most importantly, Newton managed to build a lasting legacy and personal brand—long before the NIL era. Now, as Nico Iamaleava has decided to end his commitment to the Tennessee Volunteers and is reportedly set to enroll at UCLA, the 2010 Heisman trophy winner has shared a blunt lesson for the 20-year-old quarterback.
Regardless of the coaching staff, the athletic director, or the prestigious name stitched across the front of the jersey, no college football program seems truly safe from the risks brought on by the NCAA transfer portal and the new era shaped by NIL, endorsement deals, and a growing loss of connection to school and community.
Iamaleava’s announcement to leave Tennessee is just another example of the current state of collegiate sports. However, while opinions differ on the former Vols quarterback’s decision, Auburn legend Cam Newton chimed in with a clear message.
“Whoever advised this kid to sit out and chase in hopes for more money is a fool,” Newton said during the latest episode of his show, the 4th&1 podcast. “Because the reality is this [money] is just to make your college experience comfortable. This is not forever money.
Cam Newton, former quarterback of the Carolina Panthers
“You have to understand that even though you’re talking about millions and millions of dollars, this ain’t it. You’re 19 years old, but that money ain’t going to last past 24.”
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Amid Georgia’s QB uncertainty, Kirby Smart drops stern statement on Nico Iamaleava entering the transfer portal
Los Angeles bound?
The 10-day transfer portal window opened on April 16, with thousands of players across the nation switching their address in college football. However, the biggest storyline is Iamaleava’s, who decided to end his tenure with the Vols ahead of his junior year.
According to multiple reports, the signal-caller has already made up his mind about his next destination after stepping away from the program in Knoxville. Nico Iamaleava is expected to transfer to UCLA , according to reports from The New York Times.
New surroundings
Iamaleava would be joining the Bruins in the Big Ten Conference, hoping to spark an immediate change to the program that finished last season with a 5-7 (3-6 Big Ten) record, missing out on a bowl game appearance.
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The 20-year-old quarterback and UCLA will be up for a big challenge in the 2025 NCAA season. According to ESPN, the Bruins face the 19th toughest schedule in the upcoming campaign. Key matchups include: Penn State, Indiana, Ohio State, Nebraska, and USC.
