A Leaked Text Chain Between Tennessee Coaches Reveals Their True Feelings About…
A Leaked Text Chain Between Tennessee Coaches Reveals Their True Feelings About Star QB Battle
In a stunning development that’s sent shockwaves through the Tennessee football program, a private group text thread between several Volunteers coaches was leaked online late Friday night—and it’s painting a very different picture of the quarterback battle unfolding in Knoxville.
The thread, believed to be shared among offensive staff members and position coaches, was first posted to a now-suspended X (formerly Twitter) account and later verified by multiple media outlets. Screenshots revealed frank discussions about the team’s top quarterback prospects, including criticisms, praises, and strategic disagreements.
Unfiltered Opinions on Star Players
One message, allegedly from Offensive Coordinator Brian Gattis, reads: “Love Nico’s arm talent, but the leadership just isn’t clicking yet. Not sure he owns the locker room the way a QB1 should.”
Another coach chimed in: “Miller’s decision-making is off the charts. Kid’s a sponge. If we’re trying to win now, I’d start him over Nico.”
While the names weren’t attached to every message, context clues and nicknames used in the thread strongly suggest that the staff was discussing sophomore standout Nico Iamaleava and incoming freshman phenom Brayden Miller.
The texts also touch on internal debates about play-calling flexibility, pressure from boosters, and even hint at dissatisfaction with recent recruiting decisions:
“We sold a dream to some of these kids. Not sure we’re backing it up with development.”
Fallout and Reactions
The University of Tennessee Athletic Department released a statement Saturday morning acknowledging the leak, stating:
“We are aware of the alleged private communications involving members of our coaching staff. We are conducting an internal review and will take appropriate actions. At Tennessee, we hold ourselves to the highest standards of integrity and professionalism.”
Meanwhile, quarterback Nico Iamaleava responded on Instagram with a cryptic post: a photo of him working out, captioned simply, “Control what you can.”
Brayden Miller, when asked for comment, said: “I’m here to compete, not to read texts. This changes nothing for me.”
A Program in Turmoil or Just Growing Pains?
While some fans are calling the leak a breach of trust and professionalism, others see it as a candid look into the tough decisions coaches face behind closed doors.
One longtime season ticket holder said, “Honestly, I’m glad they’re this invested. At least we know they care and aren’t sugarcoating it.”
As the Vols prepare for their spring game, all eyes will be on the quarterback snaps—and how the team responds to the tension now laid bare for all to see.
One thing’s for sure: the competition just got a lot more personal.
