UNLV QB Matthew Sluka quits the team, apparently due to unfulfilled promises

The still-new NIL phenomenon has created a pay-to-play dynamic in college football. And rightfully so, if there’s no pay, there’s no play.

That apparently happened at UNLV, where quarterback Matthew Sluka opted out of playing for the Rebels, invoking his redshirt year before another transfer in 2024.

“I committed to UNLV based on certain statements made to me, which were not supported after I signed up,” Sluka tweeted, via ESPN.com. “Despite the discussions, it has become clear that these commitments will not be fulfilled in the future. I wish my teammates the best of luck this season and look forward to the continued success of the program.”

Sluka transferred to UNLV from Holy Cross, where he once rushed for a Division I quarterback record 330 yards in a single game.

Although Sluka did not provide details, it appears that he was promised a payment and whoever made the promise reneged. Which prompted Sluka to shut him down.

This is not the first example of a NIL deal gone wrong. Earlier this year, Georgia quarterback Jaden Rashada sued Florida State and others for $13.85 million for failure to comply with a NIL agreement.

Good. That has to happen. Promises made must be kept. If litigation is needed, so be it. If the player takes a seated position, so be it.