Friday (4/11) Gabe Kuhn and CBS' David Cobb discussed Nico Iamaleava and his off the record negotiation to secure more NIL funds from the University of Tennessee.
AUDIO:
By Saturday Tennessee head football coach Josh Huepel was done with the drama, alerting the team they had "moved on" from Iamaleava. Insiders suggested that Iamaleava was looking to increase his current estimated $2.5-million dollar Tennessee NIL (Name/Image/Likeness) deal to $4-million.
Once considered the future of Tennessee football, Iamaleava entered the spotlight as a five-star recruit with sky-high expectations. While he showed flashes of brilliance, inconsistency, injuries, and the pressure of leading an SEC program ultimately hindered his development. The coaching staff’s decision to move on suggests they’re looking for a fresh start under center—possibly eyeing a more experienced transfer or promising younger talent already on the roster. It’s a tough end to what was once a highly anticipated era, but the Vols appear committed to reestablishing a winning identity.
Iamaleava’s next move will be closely watched, as he still possesses elite arm talent and athleticism. Some reports suggest that Oregon coach Dan Lanning and other top level coaches tipped off the Tennessee staff to Iamaleava's private NIL shopping spree.
CBS' David Cobb suggested Jake Merklinger is the likely replacement for Iamaleava. A redshirt freshman, Merklinger was a four-star recruit from Savannah, Georgia. He has spent a year under Coach Josh Heupel's system, appearing in two games and completing 6-of-9 passes for 49 yards. His familiarity with the offense positions him as a leading candidate for the starting role.
Full coverage continues on Memphis' SEC station, 92.9 FM ESPN.
