Bruins quarterback named to preseason award watch list

UCLA Bruins quarterback Nico Iamaleava was recently recognized for his outstanding performance by being named to the 2026 Polynesian College Football Player of the Year Award watch list, according to the Polynesian Football Hall of Fame. Iamaleava, a Long Beach, Calif. native, was among seven quarterbacks on the list, which included a total of 69 players.

He had previously been nominated for the award last season and was a finalist in 2024. Iamaleava also earned the title of Offensive Most Valuable Player during his senior year in the 2023 Polynesian Bowl.

The last quarterback to receive this prestigious award was Taulia Tagovailoa, who played for the Maryland Terrapins in 2023. Laiatu Latu, who played for UCLA that same year, won the College Defensive Player of the Year Award. He recorded an impressive 49 solo tackles, 13 sacks, two forced fumbles, interceptions, and passed defended during the season.

Iamaleava's role in the 2025 season has been instrumental in UCLA's offense. He completed 64% of his passes for 4,858 yards and 34 touchdowns, while also contributing an additional 934 yards and 10 touchdowns on the ground. This season, Iamaleava has even more support, with multiple weapons on the roster and a winning head coach in Bob Chesney.