Former Tennessee Qb Nico Iamaleava Announces He Has Committed To Ucla

Nico Iamaleava says he's heading to UCLA, a week after Tennessee announced the quarterback who helped the Volunteers reach last season's College Football Playoff was no longer with the program.

Iamaleava issued an Instagram post of himself in a UCLA uniform Sunday.

"My journey at UT has come to an end," Iamaleava said in the post. "This decision was incredibly difficult, and truthfully, not something I expected to make this soon. But I trust God's timing, and I believe He's leading me where I need to be. Even though, this chapter is ending, a new chapter has begun and I am committed to UCLA!"

Tennessee coach Josh Heupel had indicated during the Volunteers' spring game on April 12 that Iamaleava wouldn't be part of the team anymore. Asked when Heupel knew the Vols would not have Iamaleava moving forward, the coach said it became apparent the previous morning when the quarterback was a "no show" with no communication with Heupel.

Heupel declined to get into details about any discussions with Iamaleava and his representatives. Various reports said Iamaleava was seeking a big raise in his name, image and likeness compensation after helping Tennessee to its first playoff berth .