Cincinnati Files $1 Million Claim Over QB’s Transfer to Texas Tech

The University of Cincinnati has filed a lawsuit against former quarterback Brendan Sorsby, demanding a $1 million payout after he transferred to Texas Tech.

Key Details

Item	Description
Contract	Two‑season NLI deal signed July 2025, effective through Dec 15 2026
Buyout Clause	$1 million liquidated damages if transfer occurs before contract end
Transfer Date	December 2025 (to Texas Tech)
Court Filing	U.S. District Court, Southern District of Ohio, Western Division

Timeline

July 2025 – Sorsby signs revenue‑sharing contract with Cincinnati.
December 2025 – Sorsby enters transfer portal, joining Texas Tech.
Immediate – Cincinnati seeks payment within 30 days; agent declines.
Court Action – Complaint filed in Southern District of Ohio.

Texas Tech’s Role

Acknowledged the buyout at transfer.
Factored $1 million into its own revenue‑sharing budget, which must stay under a $20.5 million cap for 2025‑26.
Not obligated to pay Cincinnati directly; the amount is accounted for in its financial calculations.

Context: New Revenue‑Sharing Rules

Established post House v. NCAA settlement.
Allows schools to include buyout clauses in athlete contracts.
Similar disputes this year:
Washington QB Demond Williams avoided a $4 million buyout.
Duke sued QB Darian Mensah before settling and moving to Miami.

Sorsby’s College Career

Over 2,800 passing yards and 500 rushing yards per season.
Led Bearcats to a 7‑5 record and first bowl appearance since 2022.

Pending Outcome

The lawsuit will determine whether Sorsby must honor the $1 million clause or if a court declares it unenforceable.