Joey McGuire reflects on Brendan Sorsby situation

Joey McGuire, the head coach of Texas Tech, acknowledged that the university misjudged the fallout related to Brendan Sorsby during recent comments. In an interview at Big 12 Media Days, which took place on July 8, 2026, McGuire expressed that the school would have approached the situation differently if they had foreseen the consequences.

Reflecting on the situation, McGuire stated, "If I would have been able to have a crystal ball and see in the future, as far as would they have had a supplemental draft, I would have probably said [earlier], 'Brendan, let's don't do this. Go to the supplemental draft.'" This moment of remorse comes after a tumultuous offseason, primarily defined by the complications surrounding Sorsby’s eligibility, rather than the team's on-field performance.

Despite not having Sorsby as the starting quarterback when the season kicks off in September, McGuire noted that the statements made by the school—including a 20-minute video and various letters from athletic director Kirby Hocutt and board of regents chairman Cody Campbell—were aimed at their fanbase. Texas Tech attempted to rally support, but the backlash was more significant than anticipated, including decisive opposition from other schools' athletic directors across the Big 12 conference. For example, Nebraska declared it would not schedule Texas Tech in any sport following the controversy.

The situation escalated into a united front against Texas Tech from others in the Big 12, resulting in a legal challenge concerning Sorsby's eligibility. A legal threat from the Texas Attorney General prompted additional scrutiny, leading to the Big 12 suing Texas Tech on First Amendment grounds. This situation ultimately hindered Sorsby's chances in the NFL, resulting in his absence from the supplemental draft and exclusion from opportunities in the Canadian Football League. Thus, he remains sidelined from playing at a competitive level commensurate with his talent until the next season.

Additionally, McGuire offered insight into the quarterback situation at Texas Tech, particularly referencing young quarterback Will Hammond, who had previously stepped in for the injured Behren Morton. Hammond's ACL injury in late 2025 has left him out for nine months, further complicating the team's plans. McGuire explained that if Hammond had been available, he would have opted for a veteran quarterback instead of Sorsby, indicating that the hectic decisions stemmed from the need to ensure adequate depth at the position amid an unpredictable roster situation.