Two UNLV football players suspended indefinitely

UNLV has indefinitely suspended wide receiver Michael Johnson and safety Mike Clausen for breaking undisclosed team rules.

Both players, seniors-to-be, will miss spring practice, which is scheduled for Feb. 28 to April 2.

UNLV announced the suspensions Wednesday through a news release, which stated there would be no additional comment.

Neither player is thought to have been involved in a legal matter.

The Family Educational Rights and Privacy Act, which covers the release of student records, prohibits school officials from disclosing the reason for a suspension.

Johnson was the Rebels' leading receiver last season, with 51 receptions for 571 yards and five touchdowns.

Clausen opened the season as UNLV's starting quarterback but switched to safety after Omar Clayton won back the job.

Clausen started four games at safety and finished with 31 tackles, an interception and a fumble return for a touchdown.

Missing the spring figures to be a considerable setback for both players.

Johnson won't be able to develop chemistry with quarterbacks Caleb Herring, Sean Reilly and Taylor Barnhill, who will compete to replace Clayton.

Clausen was already facing competition at safety, where Eric Tuiloma started the final five games of last season in his place.

Johnson and Clausen can only hope to make up for lost time during training camp in August.

Contact reporter Mark Anderson at manderson@reviewjournal.com or 702-387-2914.