Cincinnati Sues $5 Million Quarterback Over Massive Exit Fee

The University of Cincinnati is seeking $1 million in damages from former QB Brendan Sorsby after he transferred to Texas Tech.

Feb. 26, 2026 at 1:22am

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The University of Cincinnati has filed a lawsuit against former quarterback Brendan Sorsby, seeking $1 million in damages after he transferred to Texas Tech. The suit alleges Sorsby breached a two-year Name, Image and Likeness agreement he signed last July that included a $1 million liquidated damages clause if he left the program before the deal expired.

Why it matters

This case highlights the growing legal complexity surrounding multi-year NIL contracts and buyout provisions as player movement and compensation continue to reshape the college football landscape.

The details

Cincinnati claims Sorsby's transfer to Texas Tech in December 2025 triggered the $1 million buyout provision in his NIL deal. Reports indicate Sorsby signed a lucrative $5 million NIL agreement with Texas Tech, funded through the school's revenue-sharing structure and donor support. Sorsby earned $875,800 during the 2025 season at Cincinnati under the school's revenue-sharing model.

  • In July 2025, Sorsby signed a two-year NIL agreement with the University of Cincinnati.
  • In December 2025, Sorsby entered the transfer portal and later committed to Texas Tech.

The players

Brendan Sorsby

A former quarterback for the University of Cincinnati who transferred to Texas Tech and is being sued by Cincinnati over a $1 million exit fee.

University of Cincinnati

The school that is suing Sorsby for $1 million, alleging he breached a two-year NIL agreement.

Texas Tech

The school that Sorsby transferred to, where he reportedly signed a $5 million NIL deal.

Cody Campbell

A billionaire booster at Texas Tech who is believed to be helping fund Sorsby's $5 million NIL agreement.

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What’s next

The judge in the case will decide whether to allow the $1 million liquidated damages clause to be enforced against Sorsby.

The takeaway

This case highlights the growing legal battles over multi-year NIL contracts and the high-stakes transfer portal, as schools and players navigate the rapidly evolving financial landscape of college football.