Overview
- UCLA chose Nico Iamaleava as a 2026 team captain, a vote of internal trust as he prepares to play under new head coach Bob Chesney.
- Iamaleava told USA TODAY that he does not regret leaving Tennessee and that he let outside narratives play out because he expects the truth to emerge.
- Draft analyst Todd McShay publicly predicted a breakout season, highlighting Iamaleava’s 6‑foot‑5 frame, dual‑threat running ability, toughness and NFL‑style anticipation.
- McShay also flagged a specific area for development, saying Iamaleava’s deep ball is a relative weakness that will need improvement for higher‑level evaluation.
- Iamaleava’s 2025 turnaround included an upset of top‑10 Penn State and season totals of 1,928 passing yards, 13 touchdowns and seven interceptions, setting the context for increased scrutiny and NFL interest.