"The NFL denied Sorsby's application, stating that he did not provide information about his NCAA eligibility or gambling history."
Quarterback Brendan Sorsby has been denied entry into the NFL's supplemental draft, with the league citing a failure to provide information regarding his NCAA eligibility and gambling history. Sorsby's attorney, Jeffrey Kessler, has disputed this explanation and has indicated plans to challenge the decision, potentially through the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) or litigation.
Background and Application Process
Brendan Sorsby, a former college quarterback, formally applied for the NFL's supplemental draft. His application became viable after he dropped a lawsuit against the NCAA, which resulted in him losing his remaining college eligibility for the 2026 season.
According to Sorsby's attorney, the NFL did not request additional information regarding Sorsby’s NCAA eligibility or gambling history after the application was submitted. Kessler's office stated that in late April, they were told by the league that only a short application was required, due by June 22. The application reportedly requested basic biographical information, four yes-or-no questions, and a brief explanation of why Sorsby sought the draft. Kessler said Sorsby completed and submitted the application within hours and later followed up with the NFL, which did not request further details.
NFL's Decision and Stated Reasoning
The NFL denied Sorsby's application, stating that he did not provide information about his NCAA eligibility or gambling history. The league has not publicly confirmed if a supplemental draft will be held this year.
Legal and Union Response
Attorney Jeffrey Kessler has stated he plans to raise the alleged violation of the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA) with the NFLPA.
The NFLPA has not yet decided whether to challenge the league's decision. A source indicated that the union has made no final determination on the legal grounds for a challenge. While Sorsby is not a union member until he is drafted or signed as a free agent, the NFLPA may have standing to challenge the league's failure to conduct a supplemental draft after an eligible player applied. However, the NFLPA may be hesitant to act because supporting Sorsby could potentially displace a current union member if he later secures a roster spot.
If the union declines to act, legal observers note that Sorsby may file a lawsuit against the NFL, arguing that the league's application of the CBA effectively imposes a one-year suspension despite Sorsby not having violated any NFL rules.
Precedent and Potential League Sanctions
The NFL has not indicated whether it would impose a suspension on Sorsby if he were drafted. Potential grounds for a suspension, cited in media reports, include underage gambling and betting on Indiana University games while on the roster (though not playing).
League observers have noted the precedent of several players:
- Terrelle Pryor (2011): The NFL imposed a five-game suspension on Pryor after the supplemental draft, mirroring an NCAA suspension. The NFLPA's grievance was subsequently upheld.
- Kayshon Boutte (2024): Boutte publicly wrote about a gambling addiction in college, where he made over 8,900 bets, including at least six on LSU, and gambled while under 21. The NFL took no action against Boutte.
- Hunter Dekkers: The NFL took no action against Dekkers for similar betting violations.