Notre Dame Declines Interest in Controversial Transfer Quarterback Nico Iamaleava
Nico Iamaleava, who recently entered the transfer portal, was reportedly interested in joining Notre Dame, but the Irish were not eager to pursue him. The team is currently in the midst of a rare quarterback competition, with CJ Carr and Kenny Minchey vying for the starting spot, following veteran Steve Angeli’s transfer to Syracuse.
Despite a crowded quarterback room, sources reveal that Notre Dame had the opportunity to add Iamaleava, but chose not to.
The 5-star quarterback made headlines two weeks ago when he demanded more money from Tennessee before entering the transfer portal. According to an ESPN report, Iamaleava attempted to arrange a meeting with Notre Dame, but the school declined his request.
Notre Dame’s Decision to Pass on Iamaleava
In a report by ESPN’s Chris Low, Max Olson, and Adam Rittenberg, Iamaleava was reportedly interested in multiple programs, including Notre Dame. However, sources indicated that the Irish were put off by his exit from Tennessee. Other programs, such as USC, North Carolina, and Texas Tech, also opted not to get involved, citing concerns over his departure from Knoxville and dealings with his representatives. UCLA, however, later expressed interest and eventually landed Iamaleava.
Nick Shepkowski’s Quick Take
Marcus Freeman’s emphasis on culture and team-first mentality made it clear that Notre Dame wasn’t willing to make exceptions for a player like Iamaleava, who had previously pressured Tennessee. Given the program’s history with transfer quarterbacks, it’s unsurprising that Notre Dame chose to pass on him when his representatives reached out.
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