In a move that is set to send shockwaves throughout the college football landscape, Nico Iamaleava has confirmed his decision to remain with the UCLA Bruins for the 2026 season. The talented quarterback, who transferred to UCLA from Tennessee prior to the 2025 season, has opted to forgo the 2026 NFL draft, as announced by the school on Monday. This decision is a significant boost to the Bruins, who are looking to bounce back from a disappointing 3-9 finish in the previous season.
The 2025 season was a tumultuous one for UCLA, with coach DeShaun Foster being relieved of his duties after an 0-3 start. However, the appointment of James Madison coach Bob Chesney has brought a sense of optimism to the program. Chesney, who guided the Dukes to the College Football Playoff, where they ultimately lost 51-34 to the Oregon Ducks on Saturday, is renowned for his ability to get the best out of his players. His arrival at UCLA is expected to have a profound impact on the team's fortunes, and Iamaleava's decision to stay is a testament to the coach's persuasive powers.
Iamaleava's decision to remain at UCLA is a complex one, with various factors at play. The redshirt sophomore had a solid, if unspectacular, season in 2025, passing for 1,928 yards with 13 touchdowns and 7 interceptions. While these numbers are impressive, they are not sufficient to warrant a top-10 ranking among draft-eligible quarterbacks, according to ESPN draft analyst Mel Kiper Jr. With two years of eligibility remaining, Iamaleava has opted to continue his development at the collegiate level, rather than risking the uncertainty of the NFL draft.
Reasons Behind the Decision
So, what motivated Iamaleava to stay at UCLA? According to sources close to the player, the appointment of Bob Chesney was a significant factor in his decision. Chesney's reputation as a quarterback whisperer, combined with his proven track record of success, made UCLA a more attractive proposition for Iamaleava. Additionally, the quarterback is said to be excited about the prospect of playing in a more dynamic, offense-oriented system, which Chesney is expected to implement. As Iamaleava noted in a recent interview,
"I'm looking forward to working with Coach Chesney and seeing what the future holds. I'm excited about the direction the program is heading, and I'm eager to be a part of it."
What This Means for UCLA
Iamaleava's decision to stay is a major coup for UCLA, who are looking to rebuild their program after a disappointing 2025 season. The quarterback's presence will provide a sense of stability and continuity, allowing the team to build around him. With Chesney at the helm, the Bruins are expected to be more competitive, and Iamaleava's decision will only add to the sense of optimism surrounding the program. As the team looks to the future, they will be hoping that Iamaleava can continue to develop and improve, leading them to greater heights in the process.
As the college football landscape continues to evolve, Iamaleava's decision to stay at UCLA is a significant development. With the quarterback's talent, combined with Chesney's coaching prowess, the Bruins are expected to be a force to be reckoned with in the 2026 season. Only time will tell how this decision will play out, but one thing is certain – Iamaleava's commitment to UCLA is a major coup for the program, and will have far-reaching implications for the team's future prospects.
Original: ESPN
Image: ESPN
Written by Npsports
