Why Incoming Big Ten Program's QB Recruit Could Start Immediately

Madden Iamaleava, the brother of 2024 Tennessee starting quarterback Nico Iamaleava, has committed to UCLA, according to On3's Hayes Fawcett.

Considering the Bruins' murky future at the position, Madden could be in play for a starting role as a freshman.

Fifth-year senior Ethan Garbers is lined up as UCLA's starting quarterback this season, but the team has no heir apparent on the roster.

Justyn Martin, the No. 17 quarterback in the class of 2022 , and Chase Griffin, who is better known for his work in the name, image and likeness (NIL) space , are still on the roster, but neither offer anywhere near the upside of the incoming Iamaleava.

2024 three-stars Henry Hasselbeck, the son of former NFL quarterback Matt Hasselbeck, and Karson Gordon, could get early consideration based on seniority, while 2024 transfer Demaricus Davis, a former Washington Huskie, might be Iamaleava's toughest competition.

The four-star 2025 recruit is a top-100 player in ESPN's recruiting rankings. He's No. 164 overall in 247Sports' listing and the 11th-best quarterback in the class.

His brother, Nico, is slated to take over the starting role in Tennessee this season from 2023 starter Joe Milton, who was selected by the New England Patriots in the sixth round (No. 193 overall) in the 2024 NFL Draft.

Nico was a more hyped prospect out of high school than his brother, committing to the Volunteers in March 2022 as a five-star and the second-best player in his class behind Texas Longhorns quarterback Arch Manning.

If Madden were to earn the starting gig as a freshman, it would create a bit of a scheduling quirk for Georgia, who opens the 2025 season against UCLA and also plays Tennessee. It's entirely within the realm of possibility that the Bulldogs play both Iamaleava brothers next year.