Tennessee Could Secure Notre Dame Quarterback Transfer as Potential Successor to Nico Iamaleava in Post-2025 Season Transition

The Tennessee Volunteers are navigating a pivotal moment in the evolution of their football program. With star quarterback Nico Iamaleava widely expected to declare for the 2026 NFL Draft following the upcoming season, the Vols face a critical transition under center. As the program looks toward maintaining momentum and continuity at the quarterback position, the transfer portal may once again serve as a vital avenue. Emerging from that possibility is an intriguing scenario: Tennessee could land a highly touted quarterback from Notre Dame, a move that would significantly bolster their future outlook.

Tennessee’s offense under head coach Josh Heupel has gained national attention in recent years for its explosive play-calling, tempo, and quarterback development. After guiding Hendon Hooker to record-breaking success and now grooming Iamaleava—a former five-star recruit with sky-high expectations—Heupel has established Knoxville as a destination for elite quarterback talent. If Iamaleava declares early, as many anticipate, Tennessee will have a major void to fill. While redshirt freshman Jake Merklinger remains on the roster and true freshman George MacIntyre will be arriving in 2025, the Vols may prefer a veteran with starting experience to lead the offense and give their younger players more time to develop.

Enter Steve Angeli, the rising quarterback at Notre Dame. Angeli, a former four-star recruit out of New Jersey, has spent the last few seasons learning under several experienced signal-callers in South Bend. Now with time and development on his side, he has shown enough flashes of potential to attract serious attention if he were to enter the portal. Although he’s currently in a competition to win the starting job at Notre Dame, the emergence of younger talents and an ongoing quarterback carousel could see him consider a change of scenery. Tennessee, given its quarterback-friendly system, winning trajectory, and need for a proven leader post-Iamaleava, would be a natural fit.

The allure of Tennessee’s offense cannot be overstated. Quarterbacks under Heupel have consistently posted prolific numbers, gained national exposure, and attracted NFL scouts’ attention. That development pipeline is a major draw for any quarterback seeking a platform to shine. For Angeli—or any quarterback eyeing the portal—the idea of stepping into a well-structured, fast-paced offense filled with elite talent at wide receiver and running back is undoubtedly appealing. Additionally, Tennessee’s SEC schedule provides national visibility, which is often a key factor for players looking to enhance their draft stock.

From Tennessee’s standpoint, adding a transfer quarterback with college experience would provide stability during what could otherwise be a volatile transition. Iamaleava’s departure would leave behind enormous shoes to fill, both on and off the field. While there is confidence in the younger quarterbacks on the roster, there is also a recognition that jumping from high school or the bench into SEC competition is a steep climb. A player like Angeli—who has absorbed the pressures of a Power Five environment, seen live-game action, and been through high-level practices—would represent a perfect bridge between Iamaleava and the next long-term starter.

Heupel and his staff have shown a willingness to adapt and utilize the transfer portal when necessary. They understand that the modern college football landscape requires aggressive roster management, especially at the quarterback position. The potential to land a proven quarterback with multiple years of eligibility would not only strengthen the 2026 outlook but also reinforce Tennessee’s reputation as a program that quarterbacks can trust to develop them into stars.

There is also the cultural and competitive alignment to consider. Tennessee, like Notre Dame, is steeped in tradition, demands excellence, and has a passionate fan base. That environment may feel familiar and comforting to a player like Angeli, who has operated under similar expectations in South Bend. Furthermore, Tennessee’s facilities, NIL infrastructure, and support system have been elevated significantly over the past few years, making the program more attractive than ever for high-profile transfers.

Speculation about quarterback movement will likely intensify as the 2025 season progresses, especially as depth charts solidify and younger players push their way up the ranks. If Angeli—or another quarterback of similar stature—were to find himself in a backup role or facing limited opportunity at Notre Dame, the transfer portal would become a logical next step. For Tennessee, staying proactive in those conversations and ready to strike if a high-caliber player becomes available will be key.

Of course, the Vols are not the only ones who would be interested in a quarterback like Angeli. The competition for seasoned signal-callers has become one of the most cutthroat aspects of college football’s offseason. Programs across the country, particularly those with playoff aspirations, are constantly on the lookout for quarterbacks who can win immediately. That means Tennessee must not only identify the right fit, but also present a compelling case—one that highlights not just scheme and opportunity, but also a commitment to player development and exposure.

This is where Tennessee’s current situation works in their favor. With Iamaleava expected to play out one final season, the Vols can promise a clear runway for the next quarterback. The opportunity to walk into the 2026 season as the starter, lead one of the SEC’s most exciting offenses, and compete for championships is a strong pitch. Combine that with a track record of sending quarterbacks to the NFL, and it becomes a tough offer to turn down.

Angeli’s name may be at the forefront of this speculation, but he is just one example of the kind of player Tennessee could target. The portal has created a new era where high-level quarterbacks are available every cycle, and the Vols are poised to be major players in that market. The program’s infrastructure, recent success, and offensive philosophy are all aligned to attract elite quarterback talent looking for their next opportunity.

Timing will be everything. The 2025 season will offer clarity on both Tennessee’s depth chart and the quarterback market as a whole. If Iamaleava meets or exceeds expectations and heads to the NFL, the Vols will move quickly to ensure they have an experienced leader ready to step in. Whether that’s Angeli or another proven player remains to be seen, but Tennessee’s plan is clearly focused on staying competitive at the sport’s most important position.

The recruitment of a post-Iamaleava quarterback will also carry ripple effects throughout the rest of the roster. Offensive skill players want to know they’ll have a reliable quarterback delivering the football. Recruits and transfers alike often choose destinations based on quarterback stability and system fit. By identifying and landing the right quarterback, Tennessee can maintain continuity across the offense and preserve its place among the SEC’s upper echelon.

For now, all eyes remain on Iamaleava’s final season. The talented quarterback has a chance to leave a lasting legacy in Knoxville, and Vols fans are eager to see what heights he can take the team to. But in the background, the wheels are already turning. Coaches, analysts, and decision-makers are preparing for the next chapter—one that could include a big-name transfer ready to step into the spotlight.

If Steve Angeli—or someone of his caliber—ultimately lands in Knoxville, it would be a sign that Tennessee isn’t just reacting to change. It’s staying ahead of it. With a calculated approach to roster building and a clear offensive identity, the Vols are positioning themselves for sustained success. And in a sport where quarterbacks define everything, Tennessee is making sure its future remains just as bright as its present.