UCLA Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava will not complete this season after sustaining a season-ending injury against Oregon. However, he has expressed clear intentions for his future with the UCLA program.
Iamaleava had adjusted well to the Bruins and first-year head coach Bob Chesney. He helped the team achieve a 4-0 start before tearing his ACL in the first half of a Week 6 win over Oregon. UCLA aims to maintain their undefeated record in his absence throughout the season.
According to CBS Sports College Football insider Matt Zenitz, Iamaleava plans to return to UCLA next season instead of entering the 2027 NFL Draft. This decision allows him to produce more film for scouts, potentially improving his prospects for the 2028 NFL Draft. NFL scouts would face a significant risk drafting a quarterback recovering from a torn ACL.
UCLA’s interest in bringing Iamaleava back is evidenced by their offensive efficiency with him. Under his leadership, the team averaged 39.2 points per game. This contrasts with their 22.5 points per game average under Ty Dieffenbach.
Whether Iamaleava starts for UCLA next season remains uncertain. However, the Bruins face more pressing concerns regarding their perfect season. They plan to carry their momentum into a Week 9 matchup against the Nevada Wolf Pack.
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