In a bold move that’s making waves across college football, Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel has reportedly rejected quarterback Nico Iamaleava’s demand to double his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation.
Iamaleava, who helped lead the Vols to a 10-3 season and a College Football Playoff appearance in 2024, was seeking to increase his NIL earnings from over $2 million to $4 million annually. However, after missing practices and cutting communication with the coaching staff, Heupel stood firm and confirmed the quarterback’s departure from the program. He emphasized that no player is above the team.
Following his exit, Iamaleava transferred to UCLA, where he’s expected to earn less than his previous NIL deal. In response, Tennessee secured UCLA’s Joey Aguilar—formerly of Appalachian State—whose NIL valuation is around $1.2 million.
This situation reflects the shifting landscape of NIL negotiations in college athletics, raising questions about player leverage, team culture, and the future balance of power in the NCAA.
