Texas Tech quarterback Brendan Sorsby is stepping away from football effective immediately, taking an indefinite leave of absence to enter a residential treatment program for a gambling addiction, the school announced today. The move sidelines one of college football's highest-profile offseason additions just as the Red Raiders start gearing up for the 2026 season.
Texas Tech and Sorsby revealed the decision in a joint statement today. The university said it is "committed to supporting Brendan through his recovery process and to ensure his long-term health and well-being," according to AP. Head coach Joey McGuire added, "We love Brendan and support his decision to seek professional help," using language from the program's release as reported by KCBD. The school has asked the public and media to respect Sorsby's privacy while he undergoes treatment.
Where Sorsby Came From And The NIL Context
Sorsby transferred to Lubbock from Cincinnati this offseason as one of the top names in the transfer portal and was widely expected to compete for the starting job. He committed to Texas Tech in January, according to ESPN. He also reportedly signed a lucrative name, image, and likeness agreement with Texas Tech, a deal The Dallas Morning News said was worth about $6 million. It remains unclear how his leave of absence will affect his availability on the field this season.
Eligibility And NCAA Rules
The NCAA still bars student‑athletes from wagering on college sports, and penalties for betting on one's own team can include loss of eligibility. At the same time, the association's approach to gambling on professional sports has been shifting. Division I this year adopted proposals that reduce restrictions on betting on professional events while emphasizing harm‑reduction and education, a change the NCAA has framed as part of broader player‑safety efforts. How those policies apply in individual cases is left to enforcement and eligibility processes.
Lawsuit And Contract Questions
Sorsby's situation is also playing out against a legal backdrop. Cincinnati sued him in February, alleging he breached an NIL agreement and seeking roughly $1 million in buyout money after his transfer, according to CBS Sports. That case could move forward separately from any NCAA review or Texas Tech roster decisions, and university officials have not linked the lawsuit to Sorsby's choice to enter treatment.
Program Response And Next Steps
Texas Tech has publicly framed Sorsby's leave as a health decision. The program's "primary focus remains on fostering an environment where student‑athletes feel empowered to prioritize their mental health and seek professional assistance," according to the school's release as reported by The Dallas Morning News. The university said it will have no further comment while Sorsby is in treatment and again requested privacy for him and his family. In the meantime, coaches and staff will continue through the offseason while the program adjusts to his absence under center.
Resources And The Bigger Picture
Beyond depth charts and legal filings, Sorsby's case underscores growing concern about gambling and athlete welfare. The NCAA has issued harm‑reduction guidance for campuses and points to outside support such as the National Problem Gambling Helpline. The National Problem Gambling Helpline operates the helpline (1‑800‑MY‑RESET) to connect people with local treatment and support. Leagues, conferences, and schools are being urged to pair gambling education with confidential help for athletes as betting becomes increasingly accessible on and around college campuses.
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