UNLV quarterback Matthew Sluka has made the decision to step away from the Rebels program and enter the transfer portal. In an announcement on social media, Sluka stated that he will be redshirting this season due to what he described as unfulfilled commitments that were made to him when he transferred from Holy Cross this offseason.
Sluka expressed his disappointment in the situation, saying, “I committed to UNLV based on certain representations that were made to me, which were not upheld after I enrolled. Despite discussions, it became clear that these commitments would not be fulfilled in the future.” He also wished his teammates the best of luck for the remainder of the season and expressed his hope for the continued success of the program.
In response to Sluka’s statement, Blueprint Sports, the company that handles UNLV’s NIL collective, clarified that no formal monetary offers were made during Sluka’s recruitment process. Their statement emphasized that they have upheld all contracts with Friends of UNLV and have not defaulted on any agreements with Sluka. The company reiterated their commitment to supporting Rebel student-athletes and maintaining the integrity of their programs.
UNLV released a statement of its own, asserting that demands from Sluka’s camp for financial compensation violated NCAA pay-for-play rules. The university stated, “UNLV Athletics interpreted these demands as a violation of the NCAA pay-for-play rules, as well as Nevada state law.” The statement emphasized that UNLV does not engage in such activities and has honored all previously agreed-upon scholarships for Sluka.
Despite Sluka’s departure, UNLV has started the season strong with a 3-0 record under his leadership. In the first three games, Sluka showcased his skills by throwing for 318 yards and six touchdowns, as well as adding 253 yards rushing and a touchdown on the ground. The Rebels are considered early contenders for the Group of Five bid to the College Football Playoff, following wins over Kansas and Houston.
With Sluka no longer in the picture, UNLV will turn to either Hajj-Malik Williams or Cameron Friel as the starting quarterback for the remainder of the season. Williams, a transfer from Campbell, and Friel, who has been with the program since 2021, will both have the opportunity to lead the team to continued success.
The NCAA rarely comments on NIL matters, but the unique circumstances surrounding Sluka’s departure prompted a statement from Tim Buckley, the group’s senior vice president for external affairs. Buckley acknowledged the challenges in the NIL space, stating, “Positive changes are underway at the NCAA to deliver more benefits to student-athletes but without clear legal authority granted by the courts or by Congress, the NCAA, conferences, and schools have limited authority to regulate third parties involved in NIL transactions.”
Looking ahead, UNLV is set to face Fresno State in its Mountain West Conference opener on Saturday. As the Rebels navigate through this unexpected turn of events, they will rely on their depth and resilience to continue their successful start to the season.
