The University of Nevada Las Vegas (UNLV) Rebels’ optimistic 2024 college football season has encountered a setback just three games in. After achieving an undefeated 3-0 record, the team will now move forward without starting quarterback Matthew Sluka, who announced his departure from the program on Tuesday, September 24, due to a dispute over a Name, Image and Likeness (NIL) agreement.
“I committed to UNLV based on certain representations that were made to me, which were not upheld after I enrolled,” Sluka stated on his X account. “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.”
A senior transfer from Holy Cross, Sluka left the Rebels after reports surfaced that the university failed to meet its financial obligations concerning the NIL deal. According to his father, Sluka had been promised at least $100,000 as part of this agreement. However, the university reportedly deferred payments several times and later communicated that it would only provide $3,000 in relocation costs, significantly less than what was initially promised.
Consequently, Sluka opted to sit out the season and take a redshirt year to maintain his college eligibility, leaving the Rebels without their standout quarterback for the remainder of the campaign.
This situation underscores the increasing significance of NIL deals in college athletics, allowing players to receive compensation for their names, images, and likenesses. As these agreements gain prevalence, conflicts regarding payments may arise more frequently, potentially impacting team rosters and season outcomes across various sports.