Breaking: Iamaleava's Brother's Transfer Choice Sends Shockwaves Across College Football

In the fascinating world of college football, where touchdowns are celebrated with confetti and shoulder pads guard dreams more than they do bodies, players like Nico and Madden Iamaleava aren’t supposed to be mere footnotes. Today, the transfer portal saga thickens as Madden follows Nico’s lead to UCLA, echoing the journeys of many skilled college football athletes before whose NFL dreams never quite panned out. But, why does the narrative circle back? Is it the pursuit of family legacy, or just the latest chapter in the ever-twisting plot of college football transfers? Let’s dive into this tale of ambition, strategy, and the relentless chase for both collegiate success and bigger paydays. LEARN MORE

Madden Iamaleava followed Nico Iamaleava’s lead in the transfer portal.

On Sunday, Nico Iamaleava confirmed his commitment to UCLA. The quarterback, who led Tennessee to the College Football Playoff, left Knoxville after unsuccessfully attempting to renegotiate his NIL contract.

After Nico’s announcement, his younger brother reportedly entered the transfer portal Monday. Madden reportedly didn’t need much time to choose a new destination.

According to ESPN’s Chris Low, Madden will join Nico at UCLA.

Madden initially committed to UCLA last May, but he flipped to Arkansas on National Signing Day. Onlookers wondered if the rejection would jeopardize the Bruins’ chances of landing Nico.

However, Nico announced his decision to play for the new Big Ten program. According to Yahoo Sports’ Ross Dellenger, he’s expected to make less than the $2.2 million he would have received at Tennessee after seeking a raise to $4 million.

Nico said farewell to Tennessee in an Instagram post confirming the move to California.

“I believe with all my heart that I gave my all as a Volunteer. I’m truly grateful for the time I had at UT,” he wrote. “My journey at UT has come to an end. This decision was incredibly difficult, and truthfully, not something I expected to make this soon.”

On Monday, UCLA head coach DeShaun Foster landed another Iamaleava for his quarterback room.

Per the 247Sports composite rankings, Madden is the No. 20 quarterback in the incoming 2025 recruiting class. The 6-foot-3 passer switched high schools from Warren High School to Long Beach Poly during his senior year.

Madden will presumably watch Nico lead a UCLA offense that scored just 18.4 points per game last season. The Bruins went 5-7 in their inaugural Big Ten season and Foster’s first year replacing Chip Kelly.

Meanwhile, Tennessee landed a potential replacement for Nico Iamaleava from UCLA. Joey Aguilar transferred from the Bruins to the Volunteers in an essential quarterback swap.

Related: Breaking: Nico Iamaleava Announces Final Commitment Decision