Cincinnati sues ex-QB Brendan Sorsby for $1 million buyout after transfer to Texas Tech
CBS Sports
by
Brad Crawford
February 25, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
Cincinnati is suing former quarterback Brendan Sorsby for $1 million after he transferred to Texas Tech this offseason, according to court documents. The lawsuit claims Sorsby breached a revenue-sharing agreement with the university and owes Cincinnati money under the terms of his contract. Sorsby signed an "18-month, two-season" deal with Cincinnati that ran through Dec. 15, 2026, which included a $1 million buyout clause if he left before the agreement's completion.
Sorsby, ranked as a five-star transfer and one of the top players in the portal by 247Sports, signed with Texas Tech on a deal reportedly worth over $4 million. In his second season at Cincinnati, Sorsby had an impressive 2025 campaign, throwing for 2,800 yards and 27 touchdowns while also contributing seven rushing scores. His departure comes after Texas Tech's coaching staff prioritized him as a key transfer following the exit of quarterback Behren Morton. The Red Raiders celebrated his signing with prominent advertisements in New York City, showcasing their excitement over the move.
The case highlights the growing complexities of NIL deals and transfer dynamics in college football. Earlier this year, Duke faced a similar situation with former quarterback Darian Mensah, who was sued for violating NIL contract parameters after entering the portal. While Cincinnati's lawsuit focuses on a contractual breach, it underscores the financial stakes involved in player transfers and the challenges schools face in retaining top talent.
This case also raises questions about transparency inNIL agreements and how universities enforce such contracts. As college football continues to evolve, the legal battles over NIL deals and transfer policies are likely to become more common. For fans, this story provides insight into the high-stakes world of player recruitment and the financial interests at play for both schools and athletes.
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Originally published on CBS Sports on 2/25/2026