Reports from On3.com suggest the 20-year-old quarterback is seeking a better NIL (Name, Image, and Likeness) deal, and his absence is likely connected to those ongoing negotiations.
Tennessee is set to host its annual Orange & White Spring Game on Saturday, just ahead of the spring transfer portal opening on Wednesday.
This situation could be seen as one of the first instances of a contract-style holdout in college football.
ESPN noted that Iamaleava is turning down his current agreement—worth over $8 million across his college career—and instead wants a deal paying $4 million per season.
Iamaleava had limited playing time as a freshman in 2023 but became the starting quarterback the following year. As a starter, he threw for 2,616 yards, 19 touchdowns, and five interceptions, completing 63.8% of his passes. He led the Vols to a 10-3 record and a College Football Playoff berth.
Tennessee ended the season ranked No. 9 in the final AP poll after losing 42-17 in the first round to eventual national champion Ohio State.
What should Nico Iamaleava do?
If you’re Nico or part of his team, it makes sense to test the waters a bit—see if you can get a better deal. But be careful not to damage relationships or cause unnecessary drama. You’ve made your stance clear; now wait and see who’s willing to offer more when the transfer portal opens. If another school is ready to pay big money? Fine—go ahead and follow the path of someone like Cam Ward.
What should Tennessee do?
They shouldn’t rush into anything. Right now, they hold the upper hand—assuming they have a viable alternative if things with Iamaleava fall apart. Publicly, they should continue to praise him—say he’s the future of the program, a Heisman contender, a potential No. 1 NFL Draft pick. But privately, they should stay calm and patient.
