The University of Cincinnati has initiated a breach of contract lawsuit against former quarterback Brendan Thorsby, seeking $1 million in damages for violating a multiyear revenue-sharing agreement. Thorsby, who played two seasons for Cincinnati, transferred to Texas Tech last month despite having one year left on his contract, which included a buyout clause.
The lawsuit, filed in the Southern District of Ohio, claims Thorsby agreed to pay $1 million in damages if he transferred to another university before the contract expired in December 2026. Cincinnati has stated that the buyout was due within 30 days of Thorsby’s transfer, which did not apply if he left for the NFL.
Cincinnati emphasized its commitment to honoring contractual agreements with student-athletes and expressed disappointment in Thorsby’s decision. In response, Thorsby’s representation claims the lawsuit is unwarranted, arguing that the university has profited from his contributions and characterizing the buyout as an unlawful fine under Ohio law.
Cincinnati has a history of navigating complex revenue-sharing agreements, especially following recent legal precedents in college athletics. Thorsby’s case highlights ongoing tensions and legal ambiguities regarding contracts for college athletes, particularly in the context of the evolving landscape of name, image, and likeness (NIL) agreements. Thorsby is now set to earn over $4 million at Texas Tech, further complicating the financial dynamics of his transfer and potential liability for Cincinnati.
Source link
