UCLA Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava faced a setback this season after sustaining an injury against Oregon. Unfortunately, this injury will sideline him for the remainder of the season. Despite this, Iamaleava expressed his clear intentions to return to the UCLA program next year.
Iamaleava was integrating well into the program alongside first-year head coach Bob Chesney. The team achieved a strong 4-0 start before Iamaleava suffered a torn ACL in the first half against Oregon, disrupting his promising season. With Iamaleava out, UCLA aims to maintain its undefeated record through the rest of the season.
According to Matt Zenitz from CBS Sports College Football, Iamaleava communicated his plans to remain with UCLA instead of entering the 2027 NFL Draft. This decision benefits both Iamaleava and the program. For the player, staying allows him to fully recover, build more footage for scouts, and prepare for the 2028 NFL Draft.
UCLA’s interest in Iamaleava as their starter next season links to their strong offensive performance with him leading. The Bruins averaged 39.2 points per game with Iamaleava, compared to just 22.5 points per game with Ty Dieffenbach filling in.
As UCLA strives for a perfect season, they face immediate challenges, including their upcoming Week 9 game against the Nevada Wolf Pack. Whether Iamaleava starts next year or not, his potential return bodes well for the team’s future.