Will Nico Iamaleava be one and done at UCLA?

Nico Iamaleava has put up a decent season in his first year as a Bruin. Considering the circumstances and all the changes, it has not been easy. Multiple play callers, changes to schemes and an offensive line that has struggled mightily. Iamaleava has done the best he can with the resources at his disposal. The interceptions are high with seven, there have been some bad throws, but also some under pressure quickly moments.

In the games versus Indiana and Nebraska. It seemed as if Iamaleava had under two seconds each drop back before a defender was in his face. Forcing him to run for his life and create some really nice gains with his legs. But that is not a recipe for success and making him take many hits that he should not be taking. Leading to wear down and frustration, although he has remained very professional about it and not complained.

Looking ahead, the coaching staff, that recruited him, is no longer here. He will have three choices to choose from, stay at UCLA for another year, hit the transfer portal or insert his name into the 2026 NFL Draft. His game tape won’t stick out a ton on film from this past year. But the talent level is there and may entice him that the 2026 quarterback class is not very deep.

Iamaleava if he does not want to go to the NFL. Can choose between UCLA and a whole new coaching staff or a portal transfer that would gain a ton of interest. He has not given any indications that he wants to leave but if he wants to go to the NFL in 2027 instead, it may be his best choice. A team that can highlight his skills and keep him healthy. When given time to throw he is very smart on his reads.

He is one big hit away on a scramble from having his career altered. Yes, it can happen with any team, but it’s added risk with the hits he is taking now. Maybe UCLA gets a top-notch head coach that builds up the trenches and that changes everything. But we will have to wait as see with action and not just talk.