NFL Teams Eye Brendan Sorsby in Upcoming Supplemental Draft

Brendan Sorsby, a quarterback previously with Texas Tech, is now available for selection, prompting interest from several NFL teams that are in need of a signal-caller. He has opted to enter the supplemental draft instead of continuing a challenging eligibility dispute related to a gambling incident, which has placed him among the more skilled quarterbacks available this summer. The New York Jets, Miami Dolphins, and Cleveland Browns are all likely candidates to place bids for him.

The supplemental draft operates differently from the regular draft; teams submit confidential bids, and the highest bidder secures the player while losing that draft pick in the following year's draft. For instance, a team that places a fourth-round bid on Sorsby would forfeit their fourth-round pick in 2027. Given that no player has been chosen since the Arizona Cardinals took Jalen Thompson in 2019, the entry threshold remains low, making this an opportune time for teams to invest.

Bid prices are particularly relevant this year, as the quarterback class for 2027 is expected to be exceptionally strong, and teams may be hesitant to part with valuable draft capital. Sorsby has been rated as the third-best quarterback in the upcoming 2026 class, trailing only first-round prospects Fernando Mendoza and Ty Simpson, although his recent gambling issues have negatively impacted his draft stock. Anticipation suggests that bids may peak around the fourth round.

At 6 feet 3 inches and weighing 235 pounds, Sorsby possesses impressive throwing ability, delivering the ball with notable speed and precision. In the 2025 season at Cincinnati, he accumulated 2,800 passing yards, 27 touchdowns, and only five interceptions while also contributing 580 rushing yards and nine touchdowns. Despite these impressive statistics, he has visible weaknesses, such as a tendency to fixate on his first target and struggle with accuracy when throwing outside the numbers.

Among the teams interested, the Jets appear to have the most favorable situation for Sorsby. With Geno Smith as the current starter and rookie Cade Klubnik as a developmental option, the Jets have an opportunity to develop Sorsby without immediate pressure to perform. In contrast, the Browns have a crowded quarterback room featuring Deshaun Watson and several other young quarterbacks, which may not provide the best environment for a developing player. The Dolphins face a similar issue with several quarterbacks already on their roster, including Malik Willis and Quinn Ewers.

The decision to bid on Sorsby ultimately hinges on whether a team believes a 2027 draft pick is worth the investment this July. Despite the uncertainty, Sorsby's potential as a starter balanced against the risk of being a backup presents an intriguing opportunity for teams looking to bolster their quarterback depth.