‘He’s going to take that team over’ – NFL-bound Vols Discuss What’s Next for Nico Iamaleava

Nico Iamaleava, Tennessee’s budding quarterback, has the kind of potential that causes both excitement and expectation in equal measure. As the Volunteers continue to build their program, there’s no question that Iamaleava is positioned to play a central role in shaping the team’s future. Already a highly regarded talent, Iamaleava’s growth as a player and leader has led to heightened anticipation for his upcoming years at Tennessee—and his eventual transition to the NFL.

But as with any young talent, there’s much more than just raw ability at play. Tennessee’s veteran players, many of whom have already set their sights on the NFL, are now weighing in on the impact that Iamaleava will have on the program in the near future. They know better than anyone what it’s like to go from college to the pros, and their assessments of Iamaleava offer a glimpse into the kind of impact he’s expected to make.

The Arrival of Nico Iamaleava

When Nico Iamaleava first arrived at the University of Tennessee, he did so with a reputation that preceded him. Hailing from California, Iamaleava was a five-star recruit and the consensus top quarterback in the 2023 recruiting class. His decision to commit to Tennessee raised the profile of the program significantly, especially under the watchful eye of head coach Josh Heupel.

Iamaleava’s skills were apparent even in high school, where he excelled at both traditional quarterback play and making spectacular, game-changing plays. He was noted for his strong arm, mobility, and composure under pressure—all traits that would serve him well as he transitioned to the next level.

As the 2023 season unfolded, Iamaleava spent most of his time as a backup to Tennessee’s veteran quarterback, Joe Milton III. Although his opportunities on the field were limited, it was clear that Iamaleava was growing into his role as a potential future leader for the program. When he did see action, he showed flashes of brilliance, throwing for 151 yards and contributing to four total touchdowns in the Citrus Bowl victory over Iowa.

Even in limited action, Iamaleava’s leadership and mental toughness stood out. Fellow teammates and coaches were quick to point out his maturity beyond his years, something that would set the foundation for his future role with the team.

Transitioning to a Leadership Role

Fast forward to the 2024 season, and Iamaleava is firmly entrenched as Tennessee’s starting quarterback. With his raw potential and natural talent, the spotlight is on him to not only lead the Volunteers on the field but also to build upon his leadership off of it.

In the eyes of his teammates, Iamaleava’s ability to take command of the huddle and connect with his fellow players is what will set him apart from many young quarterbacks. NFL-bound players, who have experienced the pressure of leading teams at the highest level, have shared their thoughts on how Iamaleava is poised to make an immediate impact.

“He’s going to take that team over,” one NFL-bound Tennessee player remarked. It’s a sentiment shared by many, reflecting the high expectations placed on Iamaleava’s shoulders. While he’s still relatively young, his composure and approach to his role suggest that he’s more than ready for the challenge. He has quickly learned to take charge of the offensive unit, ensuring that everyone is on the same page, especially as the team navigates the nuances of Josh Heupel’s fast-paced offensive system.

In conversations with Tennessee’s upperclassmen, there’s a common thread of belief in Iamaleava’s capabilities. His maturity, combined with his physical tools, gives him a strong foundation for success. Even as a newcomer to the starting position, Iamaleava’s leadership style has made an impression.

NFL Scouts Taking Notice

While Iamaleava’s current focus is on leading Tennessee to victory, it’s hard to ignore the NFL scouts who are already keeping an eye on his development. In fact, many experts project that he will be one of the top quarterbacks selected in the 2026 NFL Draft, with some analysts even considering him a potential number one overall pick.

What makes Iamaleava so appealing to NFL scouts is his combination of size, athleticism, and arm strength. At 6’6″ and over 200 pounds, he has the physical frame that many NFL quarterbacks possess, but it’s his quick release, mobility, and deep-ball accuracy that truly stand out. His ability to process defenses, make quick decisions, and adjust to different game situations could make him a future NFL star.

Moreover, Iamaleava’s ability to handle the pressure that comes with being the face of a major program adds another layer to his future success. College football is a pressure cooker, and Iamaleava has already shown that he can thrive in high-stakes situations. The transition from college to the pros may not be easy, but his ability to deal with pressure, both on and off the field, is something that will only aid in his development.

What NFL-Bound Vols See in Iamaleava

NFL-bound players who have been through the grind of college football recognize something special in Iamaleava. They see the same characteristics that made them successful at the next level. They see a young man who is fully capable of taking the reins of Tennessee’s football program.

One prominent player who was drafted into the NFL recently remarked, “Nico has all the tools to succeed at the next level. More than that, he has the mentality. He’s always looking to improve, and he’s already showing leadership skills that are rare for someone his age.”

It’s this mixture of physical and mental aptitude that has these players confident in Iamaleava’s future. His readiness to work hard, coupled with his ability to lead by example, sets him apart from many of his peers. Even though he’s only at the beginning of his college career, the trajectory is clear: he’s on his way to NFL stardom.

Looking to the Future

As Iamaleava prepares for the 2024 season, expectations are higher than ever. Tennessee has been trending upward, and with Iamaleava under center, there’s hope that the Vols can make a deep run in the College Football Playoff. But beyond this season, the future looks even brighter.

For now, Iamaleava’s focus will remain on improving his craft. He’ll continue to hone his leadership skills, work on his mechanics, and fine-tune his understanding of the game. His goal is clear: lead Tennessee to a championship and cement his place as one of the best quarterbacks in college football.

As his teammates look on, there’s a palpable sense of excitement about what the future holds for Iamaleava. “He’s going to take this team to places we’ve never been,” another player said. And with every passing week, it becomes more evident that Iamaleava is ready to step up to the challenge, both for his team and for his eventual NFL career.