Josh Heupel reveals that Tennessee will scout quarterbacks via the transfer portal following Nico Iamaleava’s departure.
Tennessee Volunteers head coach Josh Heupel confirmed that the team will actively scout the NCAA transfer portal for a quarterback following the departure of Nico Iamaleava due to a dispute over his Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) compensation. Iamaleava’s exit has left the Vols with a quarterback room lacking in experience, prompting the coaching staff to consider all available options to ensure the team’s success in the upcoming season.
The Departure of Nico Iamaleava
Nico Iamaleava, a redshirt sophomore and former five-star recruit, became Tennessee’s starting quarterback in 2024. During that season, he threw for 2,616 yards and 19 touchdowns, leading the Vols to a 10–3 record and a College Football Playoff berth. However, tensions arose when Iamaleava sought to renegotiate his NIL deal, reportedly aiming to double his $2 million annual agreement. His unexcused absences from team meetings and practices led to his removal from the team roster ahead of the spring game citeturn0news12turn0news13.
Coach Heupel emphasized that no individual is above the program, stating, “We are moving forward with the guys who are here, and we will continue to build this program the right way”
Current Quarterback Options
With Iamaleava’s departure, Tennessee’s quarterback depth has been significantly impacted. Redshirt freshman Jake Merklinger is now the most experienced quarterback on the roster, having appeared in two games during the 2024 season. In those appearances, he completed six of nine pass attempts for 48 yards and rushed for 22 yards
Freshman George MacIntyre, another four-star recruit, is also part of the quarterback room. However, both Merklinger and MacIntyre lack significant game experience, making the addition of a seasoned quarterback from the transfer portal a priority for the coaching staff.
Exploring Transfer Portal Options
The NCAA transfer portal opens on Wednesday, and Tennessee is expected to be active in seeking a quarterback who can provide immediate competition and depth. While top-tier quarterbacks may be hesitant to transfer to a program with an established starter, the Vols’ current situation could present an opportunity for a player seeking playing time.
One potential candidate is Miami’s Tyler Van Dyke, who has entered the transfer portal. Van Dyke has experience in up-tempo offenses and could fit well into Tennessee’s system. However, any potential transfer would require alignment with the team’s needs and the player’s willingness to compete for the starting position
Heupel’s Approach to Team Building
Coach Heupel has consistently emphasized the importance of team cohesion and the collective success of the program. In his address regarding Iamaleava’s departure, Heupel stated, “We are moving forward with the guys who are here, and we will continue to build this program the right way”
This philosophy underscores the coaching staff’s commitment to fostering a team-oriented environment, where individual aspirations are aligned with the program’s goals. As the Vols navigate the challenges of the offseason, Heupel’s leadership will be crucial in maintaining team morale and ensuring a competitive squad for the upcoming season.
Looking Ahead
The departure of a starting quarterback is always a significant event for any football program. For Tennessee, the situation is compounded by the timing of Iamaleava’s exit, just before the spring game and the opening of the transfer portal. However, the coaching staff’s proactive approach in addressing the quarterback position demonstrates a commitment to maintaining the program’s competitive edge.
As the team prepares for the 2025 season, the addition of a transfer quarterback could provide the necessary experience and leadership to guide the Vols. Simultaneously, the development of Merklinger and MacIntyre will be crucial in ensuring depth and future success at the quarterback position.
