A Controversial Path to the NFL Draft
Brendan Sorsby, a quarterback who rose through Texas Tech’s program, now finds himself at the center of a storm that blends sports betting, NCAA eligibility rules and the NFL’s supplemental draft.
The controversy began when the NCAA opened an investigation into Sorsby’s extensive sports wagering, which reportedly included more than 9,000 bets that amassed at least $90,000 in stakes.
Legal Maneuvers and a Temporary Injunction
A Texas judge granted Sorsby a temporary injunction that allowed him to suit up for the Red Raiders in the 2026 season, but the relief was short‑lived.
Soon after, the Big 12 Conference and the NCAA filed legal motions that effectively sealed his return to college football, leaving the supplemental draft as the only realistic avenue.
Texas Tech’s board of regents chair echoed that sentiment, calling the supplemental draft the only viable and fair path for Sorsby given the circumstances.
The university also announced it would not pursue repayment of any name, image and likeness (NIL) compensation already received by the quarterback.
From Gambling Treatment to NFL Focus
Sorsby spent 35 days in an inpatient facility to address a gambling addiction before announcing that he would drop his NCAA lawsuit and concentrate on preparing for the NFL draft.
Matt Hayes of USA Today praised the quarterback’s willingness to acknowledge the situation and move forward, noting that Sorsby “deserves credit for recognizing the situation and choosing the NFL draft.”
With his college eligibility effectively closed, Sorsby now joins a growing list of players who have leveraged the supplemental draft to launch professional careers after off‑field controversies.