Las Vegas – Matthew Sluka, the former quarterback for UNLV, has entered the transfer portal after departing the team three games into the current season due to a dispute related to his name, image, and likeness (NIL) compensation, as confirmed by his agent Marcus Cromartie on Thursday.

Sluka’s exit from the Rebels, where he had helped the team secure a 3-0 record, has sparked discussions nationwide regarding the potential implications of his move. By opting to leave before playing a fifth game, Sluka effectively maintained his redshirt status, thereby preserving his final year of eligibility.

According to both Cromartie and Sluka’s father, Bob, the quarterback was promised a NIL deal worth $100,000 upon transferring from Holy Cross. However, these payments never materialized. In a post on X (formerly Twitter) announcing his decision to leave, Sluka stated, “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.”

Since his departure, Sluka has remained silent in public forums. In response to the situation, UNLV released a statement alleging that Sluka’s agent made “financial demands,” which they interpreted as a potential violation of NCAA pay-for-play regulations and Nevada state law. The university asserted, “UNLV does not engage in such activity, nor does it respond to implied threats. UNLV has honored all previously agreed-upon scholarships for Matthew Sluka.”

Following Sluka’s exit, Hajj-Malik Williams, a senior transfer from Campbell University, took over the quarterback position. Williams has since passed for 1,017 yards, thrown 12 touchdowns, and rushed for an additional 495 yards and five touchdowns. Under his leadership, the Rebels hold a 3-2 record, which includes a recent narrow loss of 29-24 against Boise State, currently ranked No. 15.

Overall, UNLV boasts a 6-2 record, making them eligible for bowl games for the second consecutive season, a milestone that has never been achieved in the program’s history.