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UCLA QB Nico Iamaleava expected to miss remainder of season after knee injury

UCLA quarterback Nico Iamaleava is set to miss the rest of the season after suffering a knee injury during Saturday’s 17-15 victory over Oregon. The injury occurred when Iamaleava became tangled between two Ducks defenders, forcing him out of the game.

In his limited time on the field this season, the former five-star recruit has shown flashes of stability at the quarterback position, completing 62.1% of his passes for 982 yards, four touchdowns, and four interceptions, while also contributing 144 rushing yards and a score.

With Iamaleava sidelined, UCLA’s offense will need to adapt quickly, as the Bruins face Wisconsin at home this Saturday. Backup quarterback Ty Dieffenbach stepped in against Oregon and performed well, completing three of six passes for 43 yards and a touchdown.

Head coach Bob Chesney has indicated the starting role will be decided on a week-to-week basis, with Dieffenbach earning the nod due to his mobility in the recent win. Iamaleava, who transferred from Tennessee to UCLA before the 2025 season, now faces a critical decision regarding his NFL draft eligibility for 2027, as his health and development will play a key role in his draft stock.

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