Nico Iamaleava missing practice amid contract negotiations with Tennessee
On3’s Pete Nakos reported Thursday that quarterback Nico Iamaleava is in contract negotiations with Tennessee just days before the Volunteers’ spring game.
The situation intensified when Iamaleava missed an early morning practice following the report, despite his father denying any ongoing negotiations.
According to ESPN’s Chris Low, Iamaleava’s representatives are seeking to increase his deal to approximately $4 million. The quarterback originally signed a three-year, $8 million deal with Tennessee’s collective, Spyre Sports Group, in 2023.
If Tennessee decides not to meet these demands, Iamaleava could enter the transfer portal when it reopens April 16. Due to SEC spring transfer rules, he would need to transfer outside the conference.
USA Today’s Matt Hayes suggests North Carolina could be a potential landing spot.
“Let’s see how serious new Tar Heels coach Bill Belichick is about this college thing,” Hayes wrote. “His first season in Chapel Hill comes with three quarterbacks on the roster: injured journeyman Max Johnson, Purdue transfer Ryan Browne, and freshman Bryce Baker.
“If Iamaleava hits the portal, Belichick should tell GM Michael Lombardi to sign him at all costs. It’s a significant step down in level of play, which would allow Iamaleava to transition quickly and put up big numbers.”
Landing Iamaleava would be significant for Belichick in his first season at North Carolina. It would demonstrate his commitment to making the Tar Heels competitive and building what he and Lombardi have called “The NFL’s 33rd team.”
Iamaleava could help North Carolina become a contender in the ACC, despite not yet fully living up to his five-star recruiting status.
