UNLV and the school's NIL organization responded to quarterback Matthew Sulka's departure from the team amid accusations that he was not paid promised NIL money.
Sulka transferred to the Rebels from Holy Cross ahead of the 2024 season, but announced Tuesday night that he would be completing his redshirt year and leaving the program, citing “unsupported representations,” despite starting the year undefeated.
Sulka's agent, Marcus Cromartie of Equity Sports, and the quarterback's father, Bob, claim UNLV did not honor a verbal unconditional offer of $100,000 to transfer Sulka from Holy Cross to UNLV.
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UNLV Rebels quarterback Matthew Sulka (3) runs the ball against Kansas Jayhawks defensive end Dean Miller (45) and cornerback Kobe Bryant (2) during the first half at Children's Mercy Park. (Jay Biggerstaff/Imagn Images)
UNLV's NIL organization, Blueprint Sports and Entertainment, released a statement denying the Sulka family's allegations.
“No formal offer was made by NIL during Mr. Sulka's recruitment process,” the statement read. “Furthermore, with the exception of a community engagement event completed over the summer, Friends of UNILV did not finalize or agree to any NIL offers while he was a part of the team.”
UNLV's star quarterback leaves program after 'certain expression' allegedly 'not approved'
“Blueprint Sports and Friends of UNILV take our commitments very seriously, and we want to emphasize that we have adhered to all of our contracts with Friends of UNILV this season and have not violated any agreements with Mr. Sluka. Our commitment to supporting Rebel student-athletes remains unwavering, and we are committed to maintaining the integrity of our program.”
UNLV also released a statement on the matter, saying Sulka made “financial demands” that appeared to violate NCAA rules.
“Representatives for football player Matthew Sulka have made financial demands to the university and its NIL organization in order to continue playing,” the university said in a statement. “UNLV Athletics has interpreted these demands as a violation of NCAA playing compensation rules and Nevada state law. UNLV will not engage in such conduct or respond to implied threats. UNLV has fulfilled all previously agreed-upon scholarship payments for Matthew Sulka.”
UNLV Rebels quarterback Matthew Sulka (3) is tackled by several Kansas Jayhawks players during the first half at Children's Mercy Park. (Jay Biggerstaff/Imagn Images)
“UNLV has conducted its due diligence and intends to continue operating its program within the framework of NCAA rules and regulations and Nevada state law.”
Sulka's statement added that his decision to join the Rebels was “based on certain explanations that were given to me, but after I joined, those explanations were not followed.”
“Despite discussions, it has become clear that these promises will not be fulfilled in the future.”
The Rebels are off to a 3-0 start for the first time since 1984, with Sulka passing for 318 yards and six touchdowns while also rushing for 253 yards and a score on the ground in the win.
UNLV Rebels quarterback Matthew Sulka (3) throws a pass during the second half of a game against the Kansas Jayhawks at Children's Mercy Park. (Jay Biggerstaff/Imagn Images)
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While he searches for his next opportunity, the Rebels will likely use Hajj Malik Williams or Cameron Friel as the starter for the remainder of the season.
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