Oregon head coach Dan Lanning reportedly contacted Tennessee coach Josh Heupel after being approached by representatives for quarterback Nico Iamaleava, triggering a weekend of speculation about the freshman’s future with the Volunteers.
Iamaleava’s representatives reached out to multiple programs beyond Oregon, according to sources familiar with the situation.
The quarterback missed practice Friday, putting his college career at risk amid apparent NIL-related discussions.
“If I’m a UFL team, I’d reach out to Nico Iamaleava to gauge his interest in signing. Because, at this point, bridge may be burned in CFB,” wrote Emory Hunt.
The quarterback’s representation, including his agent and father, advised him to skip Friday’s practice while exploring options with other programs.
Lanning declined to address the rumors when questioned by media.
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College football analyst Josh Pate praised Lanning’s decision to contact Heupel directly.
“If Lanning did what they say he did… Good for Dan Lanning because I can tell you that’s not the only program that Nico’s folks had engaged behind the scenes,” Pate said.
Tennessee can now focus on recruiting a quarterback through the transfer portal rather than addressing potential financial demands from Iamaleava’s camp.
