Why is starting QB Matthew Sluka leaving UNLV? Exploring potential reasons for his exit

UNLV Rebels starting quarterback Matthew Sluka announced he is leaving the program. Sluka announced his decision to redshirt on social media in a shocking post.

Sluka is a fifth-year senior and transferred to UNLV after four years at Holy Cross. He had led the Rebels to a 3-0 record, but why was he leaving the school?

Why is starting QB Matthew Sluka leaving UNLV?

Sluka is leaving UNLV due to a name, image and likeness dispute and the school not living up to promises.

Sluka took to social media to make the announcement:

"I have decided to utilize my redshirt year and will not be playing in any additional games this season. I committed to UNLV based on certain representations that were made to me, which were not upheld after I enrolled," Sluka wrote.

"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," he added.

It's a shocking move by Sluka, who was the team's starting quarterback and had led UNLV to a 3-0 stat. The Rebels have a legit chance of being the Group of Five bid to the college football playoff.

It's unclear what UNLV didn't deliver to Sluka, but it was enough for the quarterback to redshirt his senior year and leave the program after three weeks.

Sluka has gone 21-for-48 for 318 yards, six touchdowns and one interception. He's also rushed for 253 yards on 39 carries and a touchdown.

Who will replace Matthew Sluka at UNLV?

With Sluka announcing his decision to redshirt, the UNLV Rebels will turn to either Hajj-Malik Williams or Cameron Friel at quarterback.

Williams is a senior and is in his sixth year of college football. He spent five years at Campbell before transferring to UNLV in 2024. Williams has yet to attempt a pass this season but has rushed for 88 yards on 10 carries.

Friel, meanwhile, is a senior and in his fourth year at UNLV. The quarterback has gone 1-for-1 for 30 yards this season while rushing for eight yards on four carries and a touchdown.

UNLV hosts Fresno State on Saturday at 3:30 pm ET.