Wolfe’s UNLV career ends early with broken foot

By Ryan Greene

Friday, Nov. 20, 2009 | 5 p.m.

One of the remaining redeeming qualities of UNLV's upcoming season finale on Nov. 28 at Sam Boyd Stadium against San Diego State was an opportunity to bid farewell to the school's all-time leading receiver — Ryan Wolfe.

That will no longer be the case, as a broken foot suffered this week during practice ended his UNLV career.

"It was a fluke thing, I just rolled my foot a little bit," Wolfe said. "It's unfortunate, but I realize there's nothing I can do but focus on getting better and back into playing shape as soon as possible."

The injury was suffered while Wolfe was practicing punt returns Wednesday at Rebel Park.

He's set to have surgery next week, and rehabilitation will last roughly 8-12 weeks. He will be on crutches for the first 4-6 weeks.

A legitimate NFL prospect, Wolfe finishes his UNLV career with 283 receptions, good for 3,495 yards and 15 touchdowns. He projects as a valuable slot receiver in the pro ranks, wherever his career shall take him.

Those 283 grabs rank first all-time on both the school and Mountain West Conference charts. They also place him 12th on the Football Bowl Subdivision career reception charts. Nine more catches against SDSU next Saturday would have moved him into the top-10. His career also comes to a close with Wolfe being 139 yards shy of the MWC's all-time record for receiving yardage.

As a Rebel, he also ran for 235 yards on 35 carries and was credited with 14 tackles and a pass break-up.

Wolfe could be ready by the time UNLV's annual pro day takes place during the first week of March.

The 4-7 Rebels kick off at 6 p.m. next Saturday against the 4-6 Aztecs. The game can be seen The Mtn. (Cox ch. 334).