Published on: April 28, 2026, 04:52h.

Updated on: April 28, 2026, 04:52h.

• Star quarterback from college takes a break to seek treatment for gambling addiction
• Texas Tech’s prospects for playoff contention framed around Sorsby at quarterback
• Uncertainty surrounds Sorsby’s NCAA eligibility

Brendan Sorsby, a transfer quarterback at Texas Tech and notable college football talent, has decided to enter a residential treatment facility for a gambling addiction. He will be stepping away from the team indefinitely, as confirmed by the university.

Leading College Talent

As covered by ESPN, Sorsby has become the first notable college athlete in the U.S. to openly acknowledge a gambling addiction and seek treatment.

A central concern in this situation is Sorsby’s collegiate eligibility, especially regarding NCAA regulations related to gambling. Engaging in betting on college or professional events violates these guidelines, leading to potential suspensions. Players found wagering on their teams face the risk of losing their eligibility permanently.

Numerous Bets

Reports indicate that Sorsby admitted to placing thousands of small bets across various sports using a gambling app. When he was a redshirt freshman at Indiana in 2022, it was revealed that Sorsby had placed bets on Hoosiers games, none of which he participated in. This could jeopardize his eligibility according to NCAA standards.

There is currently no set timeline for his return, but Texas Tech has expressed its full support for Sorsby. He has played four seasons in college football, showcasing an impressive performance last year at Cincinnati, where he played 24 games. He passed for 2,800 yards, including 27 touchdowns and only five interceptions.

Passing for 2,800 Yards

Sorsby was expected to start this season at Texas Tech and was being eyed as a potential high-round NFL Draft pick in 2027. Additionally, he was projected to be among the highest-paid college football players, earning about $5 million this year.

He earned a spot on the 2025 All-Big 12 Second Team and transferred to the Red Raiders through the portal last winter. Cincinnati has filed a $1 million lawsuit against the quarterback for alleged breach of contract following his transfer to Texas Tech. Sorsby has responded with a motion to dismiss the lawsuit.

Named to the All-Big 12 Second Team

Texas Tech had been anticipated to reenter the college football playoff picture, but this news surrounding Sorsby introduces uncertainty. Backup quarterback Will Hammond is currently rehabilitating from an ACL injury sustained in October.

Last year, the NCAA considered a rule change allowing college athletes to bet solely on professional sports, but this decision was overturned by a majority of Division I member institutions.

According to ESPN, the NCAA is currently investigating Sorsby’s gambling activities.