University of Cincinnati Files Lawsuit Against Former Quarterback
The University of Cincinnati has initiated legal proceedings against Brendan Sorsby, a former quarterback for the Bearcats, following his recent transfer to Texas Tech. This lawsuit, filed on Wednesday in the U.S. District Court for the Southern District of Ohio, centers on an alleged violation of a name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreement Sorsby entered into in July 2025.
NIL Agreement and Transfer Details
Under the terms of the NIL contract, which was applicable for the 2025 and 2026 seasons, Sorsby was subject to a substantial $1 million buyout clause should he decide to transfer to another institution. Official announcements revealed that Sorsby entered the transfer portal on December 15, before declaring his intent to join Texas Tech on January 4. Upon his transfer, Sorsby reportedly secured a remarkable $5 million deal to return to his home state for his final collegiate season.
University’s Statement and Legal Intentions
In a statement regarding this legal action, the university expressed its commitment to uphold the agreements made with student-athletes and emphasized that it expects the same fidelity in return.
“Brendan Sorsby committed to stay and play for two seasons as a proud Bearcat representative and agreed to the stipulated buyout to compensate for any substantial harm arising from his premature departure,”
the statement read. Cincinnati’s Athletic department has made it clear that it intends to seek enforcement of the contractual obligations tied to Sorsby’s NIL deal.
Response from Sorsby’s Agent
Sorsby’s agent, Ron Slavin, criticized the university’s decision to pursue legal action, asserting that it misrepresents the circumstances of Sorsby’s departure. He vowed that his client is prepared to challenge both the lawsuit and any potential penalties. Slavin highlighted Sorsby’s previous contributions to the Bearcats, noting he was compensated $875,800 under Cincinnati’s revenue-sharing plan for the 2025 season, during which he generated significant value for the program. He argued that Cincinnati’s attempts to retrieve funds from Sorsby contravene Ohio law by acting as an unlawful penalty.
Broader Trends in College Football
This lawsuit marks a broader trend in college football as it represents one of several instances this year where educational institutions have sought legal recourse over NIL agreements with quarterbacks. Notably, Duke University previously found itself in a dispute with Darian Mensah, which was resolved through a settlement last month. Mensah faced a temporary restraining order while negotiations were ongoing, ultimately resulting in his transfer to Miami.
In another case, Demond Williams Jr. had intended to transfer from Washington but opted to stay amid the university’s impending legal action to enforce a buyout of nearly $4 million.
Sorsby’s Career and Upcoming Matchup
Having begun his collegiate career at Indiana before moving to Cincinnati, Sorsby boasts a career total of 7,208 passing yards and 60 touchdowns. He also contributed 1,295 rushing yards and 22 touchdowns over 35 games, with 31 of those being starts.
Looking ahead, Sorsby is set to face Cincinnati in a game on October 24, during the institution’s celebration of its 100th homecoming. This matchup will pit Sorsby against the team he once represented before moving to Texas Tech, which recently celebrated its historic Big 12 championship win and first College Football Playoff appearance.
