Nico Iamaleava's dad trolls and calms Tennessee Vols fans everywhere

Tennessee fans have been reeling after several players have entered the transfer portal since the December window opened earlier this month. The Vols thought they might be done after Squirrel White entered the portal on Friday, but that's not the case. 

In the final hour, freshman wide receiver Mike Matthews requested his transfer papers, putting a cherry on top of the disastrous start to the offseason in the wide receiver room. 

Even with White leaving, Tennessee still had a strong core of receivers, with Matthews as the focus of the group next year. However, the Vols might have to rethink their strategy for next season if they intend to continue competing in the College Football Playoff. 

While things look really bad on the surface, Nico Iamaleava's dad took to social media to calm the nerves of Tennessee fans, especially after speculation that Nico could enter the transfer portal.

It's clear Nico's dad knows the criticisms surrounding Tennessee after the season. His troll claims he will play offensive line and wide receiver next year, knowing the depth Tennessee is playing with as of right now. 

His post should send a clear message to Tennessee fans everywhere: There is a plan to bring in guys who fit Heupel's system and can excel at Tennessee. 

As Tony Vitello said after winning Tennessee baseball's first national championship this past summer, "You're either a Vol or not through thick and thin."

Heupel is looking for guys who will be Vols for life. Some might spend four years at Tennessee, while others spend their last year or two of eligibility there. 

Mike Matthews could decide to return to Tennessee and not submit his papers, or he could go through with the transfer and look for a new home. We will see how Heupel and the Vols navigate the portal in this window and the spring as they rebuild their roster for 2025.