Report: Iamaleava skips practice session amid NIL negotiations

Tennessee quarterback Nico Iamaleava didn't attend Tennessee's spring practice Friday, sources told ESPN's Pete Thamel.

The sophomore passer's absence was a surprise to the team, according to Thamel.

Iamaleava is reportedly negotiating a new NIL contract ahead of the transfer portal opening April 16.

Representatives for the signal-caller denied Thursday that the camp engaged in discussions to renegotiate Iamaleava's deal. Tennessee's administration and players are frustrated with the situation, including the QB skipping practice, sources told ESPN's Chris Low.

The Long Beach, California, native signed a pact worth over $8 million with the Volunteers' NIL collective prior to committing to the school. Considered one of the groundbreaking contracts during the early days of NIL, the deal reportedly pays Iamaleava between $2.2 million and $2.5 million per season.

Recent deals for quarterbacks, such as Miami's Carson Beck and Michigan's Bryce Underwood, have eclipsed Iamaleava's compensation.

Tennessee declined a request from Iamaleava's representatives for a raise to the $4-million range prior to the winter transfer window closing, Low reported.

The 6-foot-6, 220-pound Iamaleava helped the Volunteers reach the College Football Playoff last season. He passed for 2,616 yards, 19 touchdowns, and five interceptions, with a 145.3 passer rating. The dual-threat QB also rushed for 358 yards and three touchdowns.

It's unclear if the lack of progress toward securing a new NIL agreement will lead Iamaleava to enter the portal. The spring transfer window closes April 25. Tennessee is scheduled to play its Orange & White spring game Saturday.