Ohio State Legend’s Blunt Message to Nico Iamaleava

Nico Iamaleava and the Tennessee Longhorns are officially parting ways after the star quarterback skipped the team’s spring practice on Friday as he angles for a new NIL deal. In the wake of the Longhorns announcing Iamaleava’s departure, former Ohio State Buckeyes star quarterback Cardale Jones sent him a blunt message. With several other quarterbacks earning revamped NIL deals this offseason, Iamaleava wanted to join that crew. Tennessee was willing to give him more money, but only to a certain point. Once Iamaleava skipped practice, Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel knew it was time for the two sides to go their separate ways.

“It’s the state of college football,” Heupel said in response to Iamaleava’s no-show, per Vol Network “At the end of the day, no one is ever bigger than the program. That includes me, too. We’ve got an opportunity. We’ve got a bunch of guys that will give their all for Tennessee”

Iamaleava has faced quite a bit of backlash for his handling of the situation, with Jones becoming the latest to weigh in on the matter. The former National Championship winner praised Tennessee for standing strong despite Iamaleava’s requests, while calling Iamaleava an “average” quarterback. “I love it!” Jones said in a post on X. “Tennessee holding their ground! Every average but talented QB ” supposedly” demanding elite college QB money. Tennessee said “Not happening”!! This is going to be an interesting story to follow as the transfer portal and spring games are right around the corner!

In his first season as a starter for the Volunteers in 2024, Iamaleava threw for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns, while rushing for 358 yards and another three scores. Now, he’s set to hit the transfer portal when it opens back up on Wednesday, and it wouldn’t be a surprise if he finds a new home in the near future.