UNLV loses lineman to Arkansas

UNLV left guard Cameron Jefferson, left, and left tackle Brett Boyko are among a Rebels offensive line that has a combined 79 games of experience heading into the 2013 season. Boyko, a junior, is returning from a left knee injury that ended his season early last year.

Offensive guard Cameron Jefferson has transferred from UNLV to play football at Arkansas.

Because the Rebels have a low Academic Progress Rate and are ineligible to compete in a bowl, an upcoming senior can transfer to another program and play right away.

“It’s official now!” Jefferson posted on Instagram. “Just want to thank everyone I’ve met during my time at UNLV. I will remember those 4 years for the rest of my life. Now it’s onto another chapter of my life in Fayetteville. Can’t wait to get there and work towards my future endeavors.”

Jefferson, who went to Desert Oasis High School, started 33 consecutive games for the Rebels.

“We’re thrilled to add Cameron Jefferson to the Razorback football program,” Arkansas coach Bret Bielema said in a statement. “As we continue to build our recruiting classes over the next few years, we will add players who fit academically, athletically and socially. He comes from a football family with his father playing in the NFL, and he worked his way into becoming an anchor for the line at UNLV. We look forward to seeing the impact he will have at Arkansas.”

Jefferson is the second potential starter to transfer. Running back Adonis Smith is joining Arizona as an expected walk-on.

Contact reporter Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914. Follow him on Twitter: @markanderson65.