Published on: May 27, 2026, at 12:50h.

Updated on: May 27, 2026, at 12:50h.

• Sorsby Seeks NCAA Eligibility Reinstatement Following Gambling Suspension
• Texas Tech Quarterback Files Lawsuit Against NCAA to Contest Gambling Suspension, Scheduled for Court Monday
• Should Legal Action Fail, Sorsby Might Enter NFL Supplemental Draft in July or Explore Canadian Football League Options

Brendan Sorsby, the Texas Tech quarterback scrutinized for gambling activities, has faced a setback as his appeal for reinstatement by the NCAA was denied. This development now places the NFL Supplemental Draft prominently on his radar.

Texas Tech Challenges the Ruling

The NCAA confirmed yesterday that Sorsby’s appeal would not be granted. Sorsby aims to return to Texas Tech as they gear up for the forthcoming college football season.

According to NCAA regulations regarding sports betting, student-athletes are banned from betting on both professional and college-level sports, with severe penalties including potential permanent loss of eligibility for wagering on their own team or other sports within their institution.

Texas Tech is firmly supporting their quarterback and is actively appealing the NCAA’s decision.

“As gambling becomes increasingly legal and prevalent across the country, we are witnessing a rise in gambling addiction, particularly among young college men,” commented Texas Tech President Lawrence Schovanec, in a statement reported by ESPN. “The NCAA aims to support student-athletes’ long-term well-being and claims to foster a ‘culture of care’ concerning athletes’ mental health. Gambling addiction is officially recognized as a behavioral disorder.”

NFL Supplemental Draft Insight

Standing at 6-foot-3, Sorsby is among a promising group of quarterbacks set to enter the Big 12, with several teams anticipated to start new quarterbacks this season.

Last year, Sorsby had a strong showing at Cincinnati, passing for over 2,800 yards and achieving 27 touchdowns before his transfer to Texas Tech. He earned a spot on the 2025 All-Big 12 Second Team.

With his remarkable arm strength, size, and potential for professional football, many analysts believed Sorsby could lead Texas Tech back to the playoffs this upcoming season.

Next on his agenda is a court appearance scheduled for Monday. On May 18, he filed legal action against the NCAA in an attempt to regain his college eligibility for the 2026 season. His legal team reportedly sought a two-game suspension, which the NCAA rejected.

Promising NFL Prospect

In the legal filings, Sorsby acknowledged placing several bets on various sports, including wagers on Indiana football games during his 2022 redshirt freshman year.

He asserted that he never gambled on any games in which he participated, nor did his bets undermine the sport’s integrity. He characterized his bets on the Hoosiers as a way to feel connected to a team he was not actively a part of.

The NFL Supplemental Draft, taking place in July, offers an avenue for players whose college eligibility has unexpectedly changed. This allows them to be drafted and join the NFL. Notable players like Bernie Kosar, Josh Gordon, and Terrell Pryor found NFL success after being selected in the Supplemental Draft.

Sorsby is viewed by many as a potential Top 5 quarterback for the 2027 NFL Draft, contingent upon the restoration of his NCAA eligibility and performance this season at Texas Tech. Therefore, even a year early, some NFL teams might consider taking a chance on him during this July’s Supplemental Draft.

Update Via Instagram

Sorsby has recently completed a 35-day rehab program for gambling addiction.

On his Instagram, he expressed personal accountability for his actions.

“I recognize that I have significant work ahead of me… for the first time in many years, I feel liberated and no longer completely beholden to my addiction,” he shared. “I am profoundly thankful for all who have supported me over the past weeks, especially my family, friends, the Algamus Recovery Services’ experts and staff, and the Texas Tech community. With the encouragement of my coaches, teammates, and the university, I am eager to return to campus in Lubbock.”