Brendan Sorsby Enters Transfer Portal: A Veteran Dual-Threat QB with Big-Time Potential
The college football offseason hasn’t officially kicked off yet, but the quarterback carousel is already spinning - and one of the more intriguing names just entered the mix. Cincinnati’s Brendan Sorsby has officially hit the transfer portal, and his resume makes him one of the top signal-callers available.
Let’s break down why Sorsby’s name is drawing serious attention - and why a program like Miami could be circling him as a prime target.
A Proven Playmaker with Dual-Threat Ability
Sorsby isn’t just another quarterback looking for a fresh start - he’s a battle-tested veteran with production to back it up. In 2025, he put together a strong campaign for the Bearcats, throwing for 2,800 yards with 27 touchdowns against just five interceptions. That kind of efficiency through the air is impressive on its own, but Sorsby also added 580 rushing yards and nine touchdowns on the ground, showcasing the kind of mobility that can keep defenses honest.
At 6-foot-3 and 235 pounds, he brings a physical presence to the position, and with over 2,000 career snaps split between Indiana and Cincinnati, he’s not short on experience. That kind of mileage matters - especially for teams looking to plug in a seasoned leader who can hit the ground running.
Why Miami Makes Sense
Miami has been aggressive and successful in the quarterback market the past two offseasons, landing Cam Ward and Carson Beck in back-to-back years. Both delivered, and with the Hurricanes preparing for a College Football Playoff appearance this weekend, there’s little doubt they’ll be active again.
Sorsby fits the mold of what Miami has looked for: a veteran quarterback who protects the football, can operate within structure, and make things happen when plays break down. According to Pro Football Focus, Sorsby had just seven Turnover Worthy Plays in 2025 - a testament to his decision-making.
And when it comes to scrambling? He was one of the most efficient in the country, racking up 284 yards on 34 scrambles (8.32 yards per attempt), which ranked 18th nationally.
He also moved the chains with his legs 39 times this season.
That ability to extend plays and pick up first downs with his feet is a major asset - especially in today’s game, where defenses are faster and more aggressive than ever.
Room to Grow in a Quick-Hit Offense
If there’s one area where Sorsby has room to improve, it’s his tendency to hold onto the football. His average time to throw in 2025 was 2.81 seconds - good for 117th nationally.
For comparison, Miami’s Carson Beck ranked sixth at 2.35 seconds. That’s a significant gap, and it speaks to the kind of rhythm-based, quick-decision passing game that Miami offensive coordinator Shannon Dawson demands.
But here’s the encouraging part: when Sorsby did get the ball out quickly, he was lights out. On throws under 2.5 seconds, he completed 66.8% of his passes for 1,338 yards, 16 touchdowns, and just two interceptions. That’s the kind of efficiency that fits perfectly in Dawson’s Air Raid-influenced system.
And don’t forget about play-action - a big piece of the Miami offense. Sorsby thrived there too, averaging 8.2 yards per attempt with 13 touchdowns and just one pick.
That’s elite production in a situation that Miami leans on heavily. In 2025, Beck had 119 play-action dropbacks, accounting for over 30% of his passing attempts.
The year before, Cam Ward had 150 such plays. Clearly, it’s a core part of the scheme - and Sorsby’s numbers suggest he’d thrive in it.
Highs, Lows, and What They Tell Us
Every quarterback has their ups and downs, and Sorsby is no exception. His best showing came in a blowout win over Kansas, where he went 21-for-30 for 284 yards and four touchdowns - with no interceptions - and added a rushing score for good measure. That’s the kind of complete performance that jumps off the tape.
His toughest outing came in the season opener against Nebraska, where he struggled through the air (13-of-25 for 69 yards, no touchdowns, and a pick), but still made an impact with his legs, running for 96 yards and two scores. Even when the passing game wasn’t clicking, he found a way to contribute - and that speaks to his versatility.
The Right Fit at the Right Time
In the right system, Sorsby could take another leap. Miami’s offense demands quick reads, smart decisions, and the ability to make plays outside of structure - all areas where Sorsby has shown serious potential. With a strong offensive line in front of him and a proven coordinator in Dawson calling the shots, the pieces are there for a seamless transition.
For teams looking for a plug-and-play quarterback with size, mobility, and a track record of protecting the football, Sorsby checks a lot of boxes. And if you’re Miami, eyeing another deep postseason run in 2026, he might just be the next quarterback worth betting on.