Brendan Sorsby's college career ended with plenty of noise. Now, his NFL journey could begin just as dramatically.
After withdrawing his lawsuit against the NCAA, the former Texas Tech quarterback shifted his focus to the 2026 NFL Supplemental Draft. The legal battle over his eligibility has ended, but the debate around his talent has only grown louder. Sorsby carries baggage. He also carries first-round tools. That combination could force several NFL teams into difficult conversations.
Five NFL franchises that could roll the dice on Brendan Sorsby
1. The Cleveland Browns could view Brendan Sorsby as their long-term quarterback answer
The Cleveland Browns stand out immediately. Their quarterback room looks crowded on paper, but clarity remains elusive. Deshaun Watson enters the final year of his deal. Shedeur Sanders still has plenty to prove. Dillon Gabriel and Taylen Green remain developmental pieces. If Cleveland believes Brendan Sorsby's upside outweighs the risk, surrendering a future pick might feel worthwhile.
2. Miami Dolphins may not be done reshaping their quarterback future
The Miami Dolphins recently committed significant money to Malik Willis, but investments do not guarantee long-term answers. If doubts surface during training camp, Brandon Sorsby's arm talent and mobility could tempt a front office searching for stability at the game's most important position.
3. New York Jets have the draft capital to take a calculated risk
The New York Jets make plenty of sense. Geno Smith turns 36 in October and led the NFL in interceptions last season. Fourth-round rookie Cade Klubnik remains an unknown. The Jets reportedly own extra draft capital in future years. If they truly believe Brendan Sorsby offers franchise-quarterback potential, the Supplemental Draft provides an opportunity to act before the rest of the league catches up.
4. Arizona Cardinals could add another intriguing name to their QB competition
Arizona presents another intriguing possibility. Jacoby Brissett currently sits atop the depth chart, while Gardner Minshew offers veteran insurance. Third-round rookie Carson Beck has upside, but quarterback plans often change quickly in the NFL. The Cardinals could afford to be patient with Sorsby while evaluating multiple young options.
5. The Pittsburgh Steelers might see Sorsby as Aaron Rodgers' eventual successor
Aaron Rodgers, now 42, has hinted that this season could mark the end of his career. The Steelers drafted Drew Allar and still have Will Howard, but Sorsby entered this process with stronger evaluations from several draft analysts. Learning behind a future Hall of Famer could give him the structure he needs after months of turbulence.
The talent has never been the question. In two seasons at Cincinnati, Brendan Sorsby threw for 5,613 yards, rushed for 1,027 yards and accounted for 63 total touchdowns. Yet his admission that he placed bets during his college career changed everything.
Now, the courtroom drama has faded. The spotlight shifts to NFL war rooms. Someone will decide that Brendan Sorsby's talent outweighs the headlines. The only question left is which team makes the call first.
