A Controversial Return
Brendan Sorsby, a quarterback whose college career was marred by a sports gambling scandal, has regained eligibility and now finds himself at the center of NFL speculation. After a lengthy review, the NCAA cleared him to re-enter the draft pipeline, prompting the quarterback to opt for the league’s supplemental selection process rather than a fifth year of college football.
Sorsby’s decision to bypass a final season of college play signals a bold move. Instead of returning to the Texas Tech Red Raiders, he will submit his name for the NFL supplemental draft, a pathway that allows players to join the league after the regular draft has passed.
Stats That Turn Heads
The 2025 campaign showcased a dual-threat profile that turned heads across scouting departments. He amassed 2,800 passing yards while adding 580 rushing yards, and his 36 total touchdowns placed him among the most productive college quarterbacks of the year. Analysts have labeled him a potential first-round talent for the 2026 class, despite the off-field concerns.
Steelers’ Quandary
The Pittsburgh Steelers enter the conversation as one of the teams evaluating Sorsby for their upcoming draft board. With a quarterback room already crowded by Mason Rudolph and Will Howard, the franchise must weigh the allure of a high-upside prospect against the need to protect a developing depth chart. Some insiders suggest the team could earmark a first-round grade pick for Sorsby, stashing him behind veteran Aaron Rodgers for a year of mentorship.
If the Steelers decide to draft him, the arrangement would allow Sorsby to learn from one of the game’s most accomplished passers while remaining on the practice squad or a reserve role. Such a scenario could accelerate his development and provide the organization with a flexible asset should injuries or performance issues arise elsewhere.
The ultimate decision will hinge on how the Steelers balance immediate competitiveness with long-term quarterback planning. Meanwhile, the broader NFL landscape watches closely, aware that Sorsby’s controversial past could influence both team dynamics and public perception.