Just hours after quarterback Matthew Sluka informed the UNLV Rebels he would enter the transfer portal, another player joins him.
Sluka announced via his social media accounts that the Rebels staff had not met the terms of ‘handshake’ deals they had made. While Sluka has no paperwork to backup the money that he claims was owed, the Rebels program insists they have paid the quarterback in full.
The quarterback claims he was promised $100,000 in exchange for his transfer from FCS Holy Cross to the UNLV Rebels. However, the quarterback has only received $3000 for his relocation and commitment, which has led to his entrance into the transfer portal. While the portal is not open yet, Sluka can enter and begin to sort out his options for the upcoming season as he is eligible to leave UNLV in January.
After 3 games, I have decided to utilize my redshirt & enter the portal at the end of the season as a RS JR. I’m grateful for UNLV & wish them nothing but success. Expectations for opportunities unfortunately were not met & I am excited to continue my football career. pic.twitter.com/B96hO1pxG5
— Michael Allen (@MichaelAllen8_) September 25, 2024
They lied to you to 🤦♂️
— THE RED RANGER (@THEREDRANGER3) September 25, 2024
Verbal agreements don’t mean a thing young man. If it’s not in ink, don’t expect a thing
— keegan murray glazer (@horkage1) September 25, 2024
Sluka is unfortunately not the only player, as former NC State running back Michael Allen entered the portal as well. Allen transferred over from NC State and has had 19 carries for just over 100 yards rushing this season.
The running back announced he would redshirt for the remainder of the season and then enter the transfer portal upon opening.
Allen, a junior, played two season for NC State before entering the transfer portal and had some success with his past team. The running back recorded a touchdown and over 500 yards rushing with the Wolfpack during his time as a rotational player.
UNLV Rebels Lose Second Player For Season to Redshirt, Transfer Portal Announcement
While the Allen announcement comes as a shock as well, it is more concerning for UNLV than it is shocking.
The UNLV Rebels have two players now who have accused the coaching staff and the rest of the program of lying to them. Sluka never came out and specifically stated it was financial promises, but it appears obvious that Sluka was not paid anywhere close to what an assistant coach allegedly promised.
Allen is the same situation as the running back stated that ‘opportunities’ did not come his way, which likely was not a financial reason. The running back is on track to finish the season with a similar amount of carries as he had a season ago. Additionally, Allen might record more yards this season, but was certainly not the premier back like he thought he would be.
This situation is particularly concerning for the UNLV Rebels staff due to the fact that it has become a public issue. Many people have long been weary about the verbal agreements and deals that have been done behind the scenes.
However, with two players exposing potential deception from the staff and recruiting department, the Rebels might have trouble recruiting players moving forward.
NIL deals are only going to become more mainstream as players seek to not only set themselves up, but also to earn. Some players such as Sluka and Allen do not have NFL hopes or chances, which means this is likely the biggest payday they will be able to receive.
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