NFL Rebuffs Sorsby’s Request to Enter Supplemental Draft

The NFL isn't buying what Brendan Sorsby is selling.

On Monday, the league announced that it was canceling the 2026 supplemental draft. Officials cited the betting scandal involving Sorsby as one of the reasons behind their decision. They shared fears that his case would be too much of a distraction during NFL training camps and even into the season.

While the league encouraged Sorsby to enter the 2027 NFL Draft, it also made it clear he still has work to do.

Request Lacked Critical Information

The NFL sent Sorsby a letter informing him of the decision. While the letter left the door open for him to eventually join the league, it also outlined the significant concerns that led to the cancellation.

Here’s the NFL’s letter to Brendan Sorsby, informing him it is declining his petition to enter the supplemental draft, which will not be held this year. pic.twitter.com/Tfoei8fCjp

— Tom Pelissero (@TomPelissero) June 23, 2026

According to the league, the former Texas Tech quarterback didn’t supply any evidence that he’s taking enough steps to get his problem gambling under control. Officials also weren’t happy about his attempt to force his way back into the NCAA, believing it showed a lack of accountability.

Sorsby’s Lawyer Turns to NFLPA

Unfortunately, it appears the NFL’s warning to Sorsby has fallen on deaf ears.

Sorsby’s lawyer, Jeffrey Kessler, told ESPN he believes the league is violating its own collective bargaining agreement by canceling the draft. He blasted the NFL’s reasoning, insisting the application never called for the information. He promised to follow up with the NFL Players’ Association in the hopes of fighting the ruling.

In the letter, the officials made it clear they were concerned about Sorsby trying to avoid consequences for his actions. They referenced his lawsuit against the NCAA, sharing questions about his refusal to accept the punishment, despite admitting to a clear and intentional violation of the league’s rules.

By threatening legal action, Sorsby’s team will likely further fuel the league’s doubts.

NFL Saves NCAA

When the NFL decided to cancel the supplemental draft, it wasn’t doing so just to protect its own integrity. 

Before abandoning his attempts to play in his final college season, Sorsby won an injunction against the NCAA. This restored his eligibility, minus a two-game suspension, until the case could be heard after the season. The controversial ruling threatened to undercut the league’s authority by limiting its ability to enforce gambling penalties.

Public pressure and the threat of more lawsuits led Sorsby to drop his effort to return to college football. 

By canceling the supplemental draft, the NFL made it clear they wouldn’t be the backup plan for athletes who violate gambling rules. It also sends a strong message to other college athletes that high-priced attorneys can’t help circumvent their rules. 

While Sorsby will eventually have a chance to enter the league, he’ll spend the next year facing the consequences for his actions.