Notre Dame has “emphatically” ruled out pursuing Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava, according to a report from John Brice of Irish Illustrated.
“IMPORTANT TO NOTE HERE: Am told EMPHATICALLY that neither Notre Dame nor USC has any interest whatsoever in Nico,” Brice reported.
The Fighting Irish had been widely speculated as a potential landing spot for Iamaleava after he entered the transfer portal. Notre Dame will need a new starter in 2025 with Riley Leonard heading to the NFL Draft.
USC, another program frequently mentioned as a possible destination, has also removed itself from consideration according to the report.
Iamaleava showed significant development during the 2024 season at Tennessee. He completed 63.8 percent of his passes for 2,616 yards with 19 touchdowns and five interceptions.
The dual-threat quarterback added 358 rushing yards and three touchdowns on the ground.
Notre Dame is expected to contend for a national championship in 2025, leading many analysts to connect them with the former Volunteers starter.
The manner of Iamaleava’s departure from Tennessee may be influencing programs’ interest. He entered the portal shortly after the regular season concluded, catching many by surprise.
Several high-profile programs across the country still need quarterback help for next season, but two of the most frequently mentioned destinations are now officially out of the running.
