“Lies, All of It!” – Nico Iamaleava Torches Claims He Planned CFP Sit-Out in Explosive Response
Tennessee’s rising star quarterback, Nico Iamaleava, has officially broken his silence — and he’s setting the record on fire.
In the wake of swirling rumors that he planned to sit out the College Football Playoff to protect his NFL Draft future, Iamaleava took to social media with a blistering statement that left no doubt about where he stands.
“Lies. All of it. I never planned to sit out — not for the draft, not for anything,” he wrote. “People love to talk, but I play for my brothers, my coaches, and this school. I’d go to war with them any day.”
The statement came just days after speculation exploded online, with some fans and media outlets questioning his absence during the Vols’ playoff run. While the official word from Tennessee staff was that Iamaleava was dealing with minor medical concerns, conspiracy theories spiraled — accusing the quarterback of protecting his body at the cost of his team.
Iamaleava wasn’t having it.
“I watched those games wishing I could take every snap,” he continued. “I live for the big moments. To say I ran from one is disrespectful, and it’s just wrong.”
The football world has reacted swiftly. Fans flooded his post with support, while teammates echoed his passion.
“He’s a real one,” wrote one player. “Nico would never bail on us.”
With the draft looming, Iamaleava’s fire might just serve him well. Because if one thing’s clear, it’s this — he’s not just playing for a spot in the league. He’s playing for his name, his honor, and the legacy of a quarterback who never backed down.
