UNLV starting quarterback Matthew Sluka has decided to step away from the field for the remainder of the season, despite the team’s impressive 3-0 start. In a statement posted on social media Tuesday night, the senior announced that he will be utilizing his redshirt year, citing unfulfilled commitments made to him when he transferred to UNLV from Holy Cross earlier this offseason.
“I have decided to utilize my redshirt year and will not be playing in additional games this season,” Sluka shared on X (formerly Twitter). “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.”
While Sluka did not provide specific details about the commitments in question, many speculate that they are related to a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) agreement—a common source of tension in college athletics today.
His decision to bench himself underscores the shifting landscape of college football, where NIL deals and other off-field factors are now playing a significant role in athletes’ decisions.
RELATED: ESPN’s Molly McGrath Faces Backlash for Defending Player Ejected for Spitting with Inaccurate Claims
Sluka’s departure is particularly surprising given his solid performance through the first three games of the season. He has completed 21 of 48 passes for 318 yards, with six touchdowns and one interception.
On the ground, Sluka has rushed 39 times for 286 yards and added another touchdown, showcasing his versatility as a dual-threat quarterback.
UNLV, now at 3-0, is off to one of its best starts in recent memory, with standout road victories over Kansas and Houston. Sluka played a key role in the Rebels’ success, though a notable mistake in the Kansas game briefly put the team in jeopardy.
Still, the Rebels’ strong start has positioned them as a potential contender from the Group of Five conferences to earn a spot in the newly expanded 12-team College Football Playoff.
UNLV’s next challenge will be their Mountain West Conference opener against Fresno State this Saturday. Sluka’s absence will leave a noticeable gap in the Rebels’ offense, but the team remains optimistic about its continued success.
Despite the sudden change in leadership, the Rebels aim to build on their momentum and keep their postseason hopes alive.
