“Ohio State’s Next Big Move: Could Star QB Nico Iamaleava Change the Game?”

As the college football landscape shifts once again, all eyes are on Nico Iamaleava, Tennessee’s former star quarterback, who’s poised to create quite the frenzy in the transfer portal. Just hours ago, ESPN’s Pete Thamel broke the news that the Volunteers are officially parting ways with Iamaleava following a stunning contract holdout that kept him off the spring practice field. With negotiations falling flat over a new NIL deal, Tennessee’s head coach Josh Heupel is shaking things up at quarterback, prompting speculation about Iamaleava’s next move. Ohio State has emerged as a potential suitor, igniting a wave of excitement among Buckeyes fans who are no doubt dreaming of him under center. So, could we soon see Iamaleava roaming the turf at Ohio Stadium? With a 2024 season that included over 2,600 yards and nearly 20 touchdowns, he could be the key to Ryan Day’s next chapter in Buckeye football. Stay tuned, because this situation is buzzing with potential—and I can’t help but wonder, who’s going to be the lucky coach that gets to inherit this talent? LEARN MORE.

Nico Iamaleava is about to be a hot commodity in the transfer portal. On Saturday morning, ESPN’s Pete Thamel revealed that Tennessee is moving on from its star quarterback. 

It was reported on Friday that Iamaleava skipped spring practice for the Volunteers due to a contract holdout. He was hoping to strike a new NIL deal this offseason. Pete Nakos of On3 reported that both sides were in active negotiations. Clearly, an agreement couldn’t be reached. 

Instead of gearing up for the 2025 season with Iamaleava at quarterback, Tennessee coach Josh Heupel has been informed his players that a change will be made under center.

Unsurprisingly, it didn’t take long for suitors to emerge for Iamaleava. Although nothing has been confirmed yet, Ohio State continues to be mentioned as a landing spot for the talented gunslinger. 

“Ryan Day may have a big decision on his hands for Ohio State if Tennessee QB Nico Iamaleava shocks the college football world,” one fan wrote on X. 

“Nico Iamaleava as an Ohio State Buckeye [fingers crossed emoji],” a second fan tweeted. 

“Wow! From what I’ve heard about the QBs at Ohio State this spring, Nico Iamaleava timing is perfect,” another person commented. 

During the 2024 season, Iamaleava completed 63.8 percent of his passes for 2,616 yards with 19 touchdowns and five interceptions. If he were to join Ohio State’s roster, he’d give Ryan Day a worthy successor to Will Howard. 

Of course, it’s possible Ohio State’s coaching staff has confidence in its current quarterback room. The depth chart currently features Julian Sayin.

It’ll be fascinating to see how this situation plays out for Iamaleava.

Related: Tennessee Makes Roster Decision On Nico Iamaleava Before Spring Game