Former Tennessee Vols QB Nico Iamaleava selected by AFC franchise in first round of early 2026 NFL mock draft

As college football fans eagerly analyze each season’s top prospects, certain players manage to capture the collective imagination with their potential. Few players have generated as much buzz as Nico Iamaleava, the former Tennessee Vols quarterback who is already being projected as a top pick in the 2026 NFL Draft. A young, athletic, and highly skilled quarterback with immense upside, Iamaleava has been on the radar of scouts since his high school days, and his time at Tennessee has only solidified his reputation as one of the brightest stars in college football.

In an early 2026 NFL mock draft, Iamaleava’s name is highlighted in the first round, signaling his immense potential and his promise as a future franchise quarterback. The franchise projected to select him? An AFC team in need of a new leader under center, one that sees the former Tennessee signal-caller as a long-term investment capable of shaping the team’s future. In this article, we’ll explore Iamaleava’s rise to stardom, his time at Tennessee, the reasons behind his expected first-round selection, and what his future in the NFL could look like.

Nico Iamaleava: A Star is Born

Nico Iamaleava’s journey to the national spotlight began long before he stepped foot on the University of Tennessee campus. A native of Long Beach, California, Iamaleava was regarded as one of the best high school quarterbacks in the country. Standing at 6’5″ and possessing a powerful arm, Iamaleava had the physical tools that NFL scouts dream about. His ability to make all the throws, combined with his poise in the pocket, quickly garnered the attention of college football programs across the nation.

Iamaleava’s high school career at Long Beach Polytechnic High School was a testament to his natural talent. In his senior season, he threw for over 3,500 yards and 45 touchdowns, showcasing his ability to command the offense, read defenses, and make pinpoint passes. It was clear that Iamaleava’s potential extended far beyond high school, and by the time he committed to Tennessee, he was one of the most highly sought-after recruits in the country.

Why Iamaleava Chose Tennessee

Nico Iamaleava’s decision to commit to Tennessee was met with a sense of excitement and optimism, not only for the Vols but also for the future of the program. Under head coach Josh Heupel, Tennessee had already established a reputation for its high-flying offense, and the idea of Iamaleava joining the fold was seen as a perfect fit. Heupel’s system, which is known for its up-tempo and pass-heavy attack, seemed tailor-made for a quarterback with Iamaleava’s skill set.

For Iamaleava, the decision to play for the Volunteers was rooted in the opportunity to step in as the centerpiece of a new era of Tennessee football. He would have the chance to grow as a quarterback under a coaching staff that believed in his abilities and an offensive system designed to make the most of his strengths. Tennessee, with its storied history and passionate fanbase, offered Iamaleava the platform to showcase his abilities on the national stage.

At Tennessee, Iamaleava wasted no time in making an impact. Although he wasn’t immediately thrust into the starting role, he showed his potential in limited action during his freshman year. His ability to command the offense, make quick decisions, and display elite arm strength was evident. By the time he became the starter in his second season, Iamaleava was ready to take over, and he didn’t disappoint.

Iamaleava’s Development at Tennessee

During his time at Tennessee, Nico Iamaleava’s development as a quarterback was evident in several key areas. One of his most impressive attributes was his ability to process information quickly. Iamaleava showed an advanced understanding of the game, reading defenses with poise and confidence. His ability to throw the deep ball was a standout feature of his game, and he consistently connected with Tennessee’s wide receivers on long passes, showcasing his elite arm strength.

Beyond his physical attributes, Iamaleava’s mental toughness and work ethic also stood out. He had the ability to bounce back from adversity, showing resilience after tough games or difficult moments. His leadership on the field was an asset to Tennessee, and it quickly became clear that Iamaleava was a player who could handle the pressure of being the face of the program.

Tennessee’s offense, under Heupel, provided the perfect stage for Iamaleava to showcase his skills. The Vols’ up-tempo style and emphasis on passing allowed Iamaleava to play to his strengths, keeping defenses on their heels and creating opportunities for big plays. Over the course of his college career, Iamaleava developed into one of the most dynamic quarterbacks in the nation, earning recognition as one of the top prospects for the 2026 NFL Draft.

Early 2026 NFL Mock Draft Projections

As the 2026 NFL Draft approaches, Nico Iamaleava’s name is consistently featured in the first round of early mock drafts. This isn’t surprising, given his talent and the hype surrounding his potential. Many NFL scouts have identified him as one of the most promising quarterback prospects in recent memory, with the tools to succeed at the highest level.

In the latest early 2026 NFL mock draft, Iamaleava is projected to be selected in the first round by an AFC team in need of a quarterback. While the specific team may vary depending on team needs and draft positioning, several franchises are believed to be heavily interested in the young quarterback.

One key factor in Iamaleava’s projected first-round selection is his impressive physical profile. At 6’5″ and 215 pounds, he has the ideal size and build for an NFL quarterback. His arm strength is elite, capable of making throws to every part of the field with precision and velocity. He also possesses the mobility to extend plays and avoid pressure in the pocket, making him a dual-threat quarterback capable of creating opportunities both through the air and on the ground.

While Iamaleava’s physical attributes are certainly impressive, it is his mental game that has truly set him apart. His football IQ, poise under pressure, and leadership ability have made him one of the most coveted quarterback prospects of his generation. NFL teams are always on the lookout for quarterbacks who can come in and immediately make an impact, and Iamaleava has the tools to do just that.

Which AFC Teams Could Select Iamaleava?

Several AFC teams could be in play for Nico Iamaleava in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft. Teams like the Indianapolis Colts, Houston Texans, and Las Vegas Raiders, who have struggled to find consistent play at the quarterback position, could see Iamaleava as a franchise-altering player who can help turn around their fortunes. Other teams, such as the New York Jets or the Denver Broncos, may also look to select Iamaleava if they are still in need of a long-term quarterback solution by the time of the draft.

In particular, the Indianapolis Colts are a team that has been mentioned as a potential landing spot for Iamaleava. The Colts have had instability at the quarterback position in recent years, and selecting a young, dynamic talent like Iamaleava could provide them with the franchise quarterback they’ve been searching for. Iamaleava’s arm strength, mobility, and leadership would make him an ideal fit for the Colts’ offense, which is looking to get back into playoff contention.

The Houston Texans are another team that could be looking for a quarterback of the future, and Iamaleava would provide them with a dynamic option to build around. The Texans have made significant strides in recent years, but securing a quarterback who can elevate the team’s offense would be a key next step in their rebuild.

The Las Vegas Raiders, with their high-powered offense, could also be a good fit for Iamaleava. With weapons like Davante Adams at wide receiver, the Raiders have the pieces in place for a dynamic offense, and a quarterback with Iamaleava’s abilities could take them to the next level.

What Can Iamaleava Bring to the NFL?

As Nico Iamaleava transitions to the NFL, he will bring a rare combination of physical gifts and mental toughness to his new team. His arm strength and accuracy are elite, and his ability to read defenses and process information quickly will serve him well in the fast-paced, high-pressure environment of the NFL. While there will undoubtedly be a learning curve as he adjusts to the speed of the game, Iamaleava’s talent and work ethic suggest he will be able to make an immediate impact.

One of the most exciting aspects of Iamaleava’s game is his versatility. He has the ability to make plays both in the pocket and outside of it, using his mobility to extend plays and create opportunities for his receivers. His deep ball accuracy is among the best in the class, and his ability to throw with velocity and touch makes him a dangerous weapon in any offensive system. His leadership and poise under pressure are also qualities that NFL teams value, making him an ideal candidate to lead a franchise into the future.

Nico Iamaleava’s selection in the first round of the 2026 NFL Draft is a testament to his exceptional talent and the high regard in which he is held by NFL scouts. His physical tools, mental acumen, and leadership abilities make him one of the most promising quarterback prospects in recent memory. As he prepares for his transition to the NFL, Iamaleava’s future looks incredibly bright, and the team that selects him will be getting a franchise quarterback capable of leading their offense for years to come.

While there are still a few years to go before the 2026 NFL Draft, Iamaleava’s rise from high school standout to first-round draft pick is already well underway. The next chapter of his football journey promises to be an exciting one, and fans of whichever AFC team selects him will be eagerly watching as he looks to make his mark in the NFL.