NCAA makes definitive decision on Texas Tech QB Brendan Sorsby appeal

The NCAA has again denied Texas Tech’s appeal to reinstate quarterback Brendan Sorsby, Justin Williams of The Athletic reported Friday. It’s the second time the university’s appeal for eligibility restoration has been rejected following gambling violations. The decision is separate from Sorsby’s ongoing lawsuit against the NCAA, which is still awaiting a ruling in Lubbock District Court.

Sorsby was ruled ineligible after acknowledging gambling on sports, including wagers involving his own team while at Indiana. Court documents state he placed at least 40 bets involving Indiana football and wagered approximately $90,000 over four years, including activity after his transfer from Cincinnati to Texas Tech. He also reportedly placed thousands of bets on gambling apps in recent years, including betting on Indiana football while he was redshirting in 2022.

The Red Raiders filed their appeal in late May after the NCAA initially denied reinstatement. That first denial came on May 22, following the school’s ineligibility ruling on May 18 and the filing of Sorsby’s lawsuit the same day. The university then submitted its appeal the following day, which has now also been rejected.

Sorsby’s legal case remains active after a two-hour hearing held June 1 in the 99th District Court in Lubbock County, where Judge Ken Curry has not issued a ruling so far. Texas Tech head coach Joey McGuire has said he expects a decision by June 8.

During proceedings, Sorsby’s attorney Jeffrey Kessler argued inconsistent NCAA enforcement, citing a case involving former Indiana assistant volleyball coach Brett Agne, who allegedly placed more than 700 wagers totaling over $327,000 in five months, including bets on 27 football and men’s basketball games. Agne received a two-year show-cause order, mandatory education, and a 10-game suspension, about 30% of Indiana’s season, as part of a negotiated resolution.

Sorsby played two seasons at Cincinnati and previously at Indiana in 2022-23 before transferring to Texas Tech, which he chose over LSU. He has been diagnosed with gambling and anxiety disorders and reportedly completed a 35-day stay in an Arizona gambling rehabilitation center after taking a leave of absence from the program.

The NFL supplemental draft deadline is June 22, and Cleveland Browns head coach Todd Monken reportedly would not be inclined to select Sorsby if he remains ineligible to play college football in 2026.

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