The NFL has denied quarterback Brendan Sorsby’s application for the 2026 supplemental draft, prompting his lawyer to challenge the decision. This comes after Sorsby was declared permanently ineligible by the NCAA for gambling violations.
Key facts
The NFL announced there will be no supplemental draft in 2026.
Sorsby’s lawyer, Jeffrey Kessler, claims the denial violates the Collective Bargaining Agreement (CBA).
Sorsby was declared ineligible for gambling on games during his college career.
A ruling on Sorsby’s eligibility could come before the first training camp on July 23.
Why it matters: Sorsby’s case raises questions about the NFL's authority and the implications of NCAA sanctions on professional eligibility.
With no supplemental draft planned, Sorsby faces a long wait until the 2027 NFL draft.
This situation highlights the intersection of collegiate and professional sports regulations, particularly concerning gambling.
The outcome could set a precedent for how the NFL handles similar cases in the future.
Driving the news: The NFL formally rejected Sorsby’s application on June 23, 2026, stating that it retains discretion over the conduct of supplemental drafts under the CBA.
The league's letter indicated Sorsby’s petition lacked supporting documentation and was filed shortly after he abandoned litigation against the NCAA.
The NFL pointed to Sorsby's history of improper gambling as a major factor in their decision.
They noted that no other player had sought entry into this year's supplemental draft.
State of play: As Sorsby’s legal team prepares to contest the NFL's ruling, the lack of a supplemental draft this year leaves him in limbo.
Legal experts suggest that Kessler may pursue a grievance with the NFL Players Association (NFLPA) on behalf of Sorsby.
Even though Sorsby is not an NFLPA member, the union has standing to challenge the league’s decisions.
There is speculation that Kessler will file a lawsuit, though he has not confirmed this yet.
The big picture: Sorsby’s saga reflects broader issues in the NFL concerning player eligibility and accountability.
He was previously viewed as a top prospect, with scouts predicting he could have been a second-round pick had he remained eligible.
Since 2019, no players have been selected in the supplemental draft, indicating its declining relevance.
The NFL’s decision may deter future players with similar eligibility issues from pursuing the supplemental draft route.
What they're saying: Kessler’s comments underline the contentious nature of the NFL’s decision.
“It is a violation of the CBA and the law,” Kessler told ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
He emphasized that they will pursue immediate action with the NFLPA.
Experts believe the NFLPA could leverage this case to address player rights more broadly.
By the numbers: The timeline for a decision on Sorsby’s future is tight.
The first NFL training camp opens on July 23, 2026.
The supplemental draft typically occurs at least seven days before training camps begin.
Sorsby was declared ineligible by the NCAA in May 2026, following multiple gambling violations.
What's next: Sorsby and his legal team are expected to act quickly in response to the NFL’s ruling.
They may file a formal grievance with the NFLPA, seeking to challenge the league's decision.
Kessler's next steps will likely involve evaluating the potential for a lawsuit against the NFL.
The situation remains fluid, with developments anticipated in the coming weeks as the July training camp date approaches.