Tennessee QB Joey Aguilar's NIL Deal Is Bargain Compared to Nico Iamaleava

The Tennessee Volunteers took a big hit this offseason after quarterback Nico Iamaleava transferred to the UCLA Bruins due to an NIL dispute. Losing one of the nation's most talented signal callers could have derailed their season.

The situation took a surprising turn when UCLA quarterback Joey Aguilar transferred to Tennessee, essentially completing a quarterback swap.

However, one thing that has become extremely clear in this switch is that it would be cheaper for the Volunteers in the long run.

Iamaleava entered the 2025 season as a potential Heisman Trophy candidate and, in turn, had an On3 NIL valuation of $1.2 million and a roster value of $694,000.

That's significantly more than Aguilar's $477,000 On3 NIL valuation and $439,000 roster value.

Between the two quarterbacks, that's a difference of $753,000. However, it is also worth noting that these are projections, as exact figures on NIL earnings are rarely made public.

Of course, though, in a perfect world, the better players make more money, meaning a drop off in production for Tennessee wouldn't come as a major surprise.

Comparing Iamaleava and Aguilar's 2025 Seasons

We're still early into the season, but between the two, it's clear who has performed better: Iamaleava and Aguilar.

In three games, Iamaleava has led UCLA to a 0-3 start. His numbers haven't been too impressive, completing 62-of-97 passes for 608 yards, three touchdowns and three interceptions. He's also rushed for 139 yards and one touchdown.

On the other hand, Tennessee is 2-0 with Aguilar, completing 39-of-59 passes for 535 yards, five touchdowns and zero interceptions. That kind of production, combined with lower projected NIL costs, makes him one of the biggest bargains in college football.

If each of these quarterbacks continues playing the same way, then the Volunteers will undoubtedly view the switch as s a big win in their favor.