UNLV starting quarterback Matthew Sluka has announced that he will no longer play for the Rebels following a 3-0 start to the season, citing unfulfilled promises related to his NIL compensation. The Holy Cross transfer indicated he plans to sit out the rest of the season as a redshirt and intends to reenter the transfer portal in December, prompting questions about the financial agreement he had with the program and the implications of his departure for the undefeated team.
Sluka, who joined UNLV this summer after a successful stint at Holy Cross, had a standout career in the FCS, where he earned accolades including the Patriot League Offensive Player of the Year in 2023. In his last season at Holy Cross, he accumulated over 1,700 passing yards and more than 1,200 rushing yards with 29 touchdowns. He transferred to UNLV after the departure of starting quarterback Jayden Maiava to USC.
This season, Sluka emerged as a leader in rushing yards among Mountain West quarterbacks, with impressive performances including a win against Kansas, where he contributed 124 rushing yards and 86 passing yards with a touchdown.
UNLV’s football program, led by head coach Barry Odom, is experiencing a promising season, seeking a position in the College Football Playoff with their current undefeated record. The Rebels’ rise to No. 23 in the coaches poll reflects their strong performance and ambition in the Mountain West Conference.
Sluka’s departure stems from financial disagreements regarding NIL compensation. His representative, Marcus Cromartie, stated that Sluka was promised at least $100,000 but only received $3,000. Sluka’s father mentioned that despite a verbal agreement with UNLV’s offensive coordinator, the promised payments were not honored. Following a recent victory over Kansas, discussions between Sluka’s family and Coach Odom reportedly failed to resolve the situation, leading to Sluka’s departure.
The NCAA transfer portal does not open until December, meaning Sluka cannot join another team right away but will utilize the redshirt rule, enabling him to play in 2025.
NIL disputes like this are becoming increasingly visible, with several players facing similar issues regarding compensation agreements, especially amid heightened competition for attracting talent. As college athletics undergo significant changes relating to player compensation, Sluka’s case emphasizes the complexities and challenges within the current NIL environment.
Moving forward, UNLV will rely on senior quarterbacks Hajj-Malik Williams and Cameron Friel as they continue their season, facing Fresno State in their upcoming matchup.