UNLV QB Matthew Sluka enters transfer portal: Rebels signal caller says move tied to unfulfilled “obligations”

UNLV starting quarterback Matthew Sluka is leaving the Rebels program and will redshirt for a chance to enter the transfer portal later, he announced on social media late Tuesday. Sluka cited “certain assurances” the school gave him when he transferred from Holy Cross this offseason for the withdrawal.

“I have decided to take advantage of my redshirt year and will not play any more games this season,” Sluka said. “I chose UNLV because of certain commitments that were made to me that were not fulfilled after I enrolled. Despite discussions, it became clear that those 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.”

The Rebels have started the 2024 season 3-0 under Sluka's leadership. In the first three games, Sluka threw for 318 yards and six touchdowns and added further momentum as a runner, scoring 253 yards rushing and a touchdown.

UNLV is one of the top contenders to advance to the first round of the 12-team Group of Five College Football Playoffs. The Rebels are fresh off an impressive 23-20 win over Kansas and picked up another Power Four victory over Houston.

With Sluka out, UNLV will rely on Hajj-Malik Williams or Cameron Friel as its starter for the remainder of the season. Williams transferred from Campbell last offseason, while Friel has been with the program since 2021. Friel played a lot of snaps as a true freshman during the 2021 season, completing 62.4% of his attempts for 1,608 yards and six touchdowns. Since then, he has attempted just 50 passes in the last three seasons.

UNLV hosts Fresno State on Saturday to open its Mountain West Conference play.