UNLV starting quarterback Matt Sluka will use his redshirt and not play in any more games for the school this season, over claims of unfulfilled verbal NIL promises or ‘commitments’ made to him from a UNLV assistant coach.
Sluka announced on social media: “I have decided to utilize my redshirt year and will not be playing in any additional games this season. 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. I wish my teammates the best of luck this season and hope for the continued success of the program.”
Sluka’s decision to leave the undefeated Rebels marks the first time that a player has publicly elected to take a redshirt and transfer in-season due to NIL agreements not being met. The senior quarterback, who transferred to UNLV earlier this year from Holy Cross in the offseason, completed 21 of his 48 passing attempts for 318 yards (43.8%), with six touchdowns and one interception through three games this season.
Sluka’s performance for UNLV has been key to the program’s first 3-0 start in 40 years. Seniors Cameron Friel, Hajj-Malik Williams, freshman Gael Ochoa and redshirt freshman Lucas Lenhoff are the other quarterbacks on the Rebels’ roster. Frier and Williams, who each threw one pass this season, were in a quarterback competition with Sluka during preseason camp.
UNLV will host Fresno State at 3:30 p.m. EDT Sept. 28 at Allegiant Stadium in Las Vegas.
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