NFL Declines Supplemental Draft, Ends Sorsby Gambling Saga

The NFL confirmed on Tuesday its decision not to conduct a supplemental draft for the current year. This announcement effectively closes the immediate path for Brendan Sorsby, the former Texas Tech quarterback, to enter the professional league this season. Sorsby had applied for the supplemental draft after the NCAA declared him ineligible for the upcoming season due to violations related to sports gambling.

The NFL's rationale was communicated in a letter sent to Sorsby and all 32 teams. Lawrence Ferazani Jr., general counsel for the NFL Management Council, stated that the league retains sole discretion over supplemental drafts and had not planned one this year, as Sorsby was the only applicant. Ferazani Jr. highlighted that Sorsby's petition, submitted late and without supporting documentation, did not provide sufficient grounds for the league to alter its existing plans, especially given the significant integrity concerns.

Sorsby's situation stems from admissions of making thousands of bets, including at least 40 on his own team during his time at Indiana University. After transferring to Texas Tech and entering treatment for gambling addiction, the NCAA ruled him ineligible. Despite initially securing a temporary injunction against the NCAA, Sorsby later dropped his lawsuit to pursue an NFL career, a move that followed threats of boycotts from opposing teams and potential ineligibility rulings from the Big 12 conference.

Jeffrey Kessler, Sorsby's attorney, indicated intentions to appeal the NFL's decision to the NFL Players Association (NFLPA), arguing it violates the league's collective bargaining agreement. Kessler stated that the NFL had not previously indicated any requirements beyond a short application submitted by the June 22 deadline. However, the NFL is not obligated to hold a supplemental draft, having not done so for the past three years.

With the NFL door closed for 2026, Sorsby's immediate options for playing football are limited. Possibilities include seeking entry into the Canadian Football League (CFL), although their season is already underway, or joining the United Football League (UFL) in 2027. Billionaire Mike Repole, a UFL co-owner, publicly invited Sorsby to consider playing for the Dallas Renegades. Alternatively, Sorsby could opt to sit out the season and prepare for the 2027 NFL Draft. The betting market on Kalshi, which had over $154,000 in trading volume on Sorsby's potential NFL team, is now resolved with no selections.