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The University of Cincinnati has filed a lawsuit against former quarterback Brendan Sosby, seeking $1 million in damages after he transferred to Texas Tech, according to USA TODAY Sports.
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The lawsuit accuses Sosby of violating a two-year name, image and likeness agreement he signed last July that covers the 2025 and 2026 seasons. Cincinnati claims the contract contains a $1 million liquidated damages clause that would require payment within 30 days if Sosby leaves the program before the deal expires.
Thorsby entered the transfer portal in December 2025 and later committed to Texas Tech. Cincinnati claimed the move triggered a buyout clause and that the quarterback failed to meet the financial terms outlined in the agreement.
A representative for Thorsby called the lawsuit “misguided” and said the quarterback plans to fight the charges in court.
The legal dispute comes amid reports that Thorsby has signed one of the most lucrative NIL deals of the 2025-26 transfer cycle. Multiple reports put his deal with Texas Tech at around $5 million, with figures ranging from $4 million to $6 million. The deal is believed to be funded by the school’s revenue-sharing structure and support from donors, including billionaire backer Cody Campbell.
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Under the school’s revenue-sharing model, Thorsby will make $875,800 during Cincinnati’s 2025 season.
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The case adds to the legal complexities surrounding multi-year, no-pay contracts and buyout provisions as player turnover and compensation continue to shape college football’s financial landscape.
