Nico Iamaleava makes final decision on his future with Volunteers ahead of 2025 NCAAF season

Nico Iamaleava emerged as one of the key figures for the Tennessee Volunteers during last season’s NCAAF campaign, helping lead the team to a strong Playoff run — even if they ultimately fell short of going further. Looking ahead, both the quarterback and the program have now reached a final decision regarding his future.

Unfortunately for the Vols, the talented quarterback has decided to enter the Transfer Portal, signaling his intent to seek a new opportunity elsewhere. After two years with the program, Iamaleava will now take the next step in his career wearing different colors on the field.

The news was first reported by college football insider Pete Thamel, who shared additional details on Iamaleava’s decision to leave Tennessee via his official X account (formerly Twitter).

“Sources: Tennessee is moving on from starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava. Tennessee coach Josh Heupel informed the team of the decision at a team meeting this morning. Iamaleava missed meetings and practice on Friday, which was the driver of this decision,” Thamel stated via @PeteThamel.

Nico Iamaleava #8 of the Tennessee Volunteers walks off the field after defeating the Florida Gators during their game at Neyland Stadium on October 12, 2024 in Knoxville, Tennessee.

Previously, Thamel had reported that Iamaleava was unlikely to remain with the program, citing his absence from team workouts as a key indicator: “Tennessee hosts its annual spring game today. Iamaleava will not be present. There’s been little communication between the sides since he missed practice. He’s expected to enter the portal when it opens next week.”

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Where will Nico Iamaleava continue his NCAAF career?

While many believed the quarterback might stay with the Vols for at least one more season, the reality is that Iamaleava has officially entered the Transfer Portal and won’t be wearing orange next year.

Now, two key questions loom over the immediate future: Where will the quarterback land next — and who will take over as the starter for Josh Heupel’s Tennessee squad next season?

On one hand, it’s worth noting that while there’s still no clear indication of what’s next for Iamaleava, it’s likely that his main objective will be to join a program with legitimate National Championship aspirations, with many insiders linking him with Oregon or USC.

Now, it will be up to head coach Josh Heupel to decide how to handle the starting quarterback role — whether he chooses to move forward with the options already on the roster, or look for a high-profile name in the Transfer Portal.