The Canadian Football League has banned its nine teams from signing quarterback Brendan Sorsby
The Canadian Football League has banned its nine teams from signing quarterback Brendan Sorsby, according to a statement released on June 25, 2026, by the league office. The decision follows unresolved legal disputes involving Sorsby’s previous contractual obligations.
Legal Deadlock Dates Back to 2024 Contract Clause
Sorsby, 28, was previously under contract with the Hamilton Tiger-Cats, whose legal team filed a motion in late 2025 to block his potential transfer to another league. A British Columbia Supreme Court ruling in March 2026 temporarily halted negotiations, stating that Sorsby’s 2024 contract with the Tiger-Cats included a clause preventing cross-league moves without mutual consent.
Sorsby’s Agent Questions League’s Player Mobility Stance
Sorsby, who played college football at the University of Oregon and was drafted by the NFL’s Arizona Cardinals in 2021, has yet to comment publicly. His agent, Mark Lamping, stated in a June 24 press release that the CFL’s move “raises concerns about the league’s adherence to player mobility principles.” Lamping added that Sorsby is exploring options in the XFL and USFL, though neither league has confirmed interest.
CFL’s First League-Wide Signing Ban Since 2018
This is the first known instance of the CFL enforcing a league-wide signing ban since 2018, when the Calgary Stampeders faced similar restrictions over a player’s unpaid salary dispute. The current situation underscores the league’s reliance on legal frameworks to manage contractual obligations, a contrast to the NFL’s more flexible free-agency system.
Tiger-Cats Refuse to Comment, Cite Court Focus
The Tiger-Cats’ general manager, Danny McManus, declined to comment on the CFL’s latest decision but reiterated the team’s stance: “We are focused on resolving this matter through the courts and will not engage in any actions that could undermine our contractual rights.”
CFL Legal Advisory Board to Rule by July 10
The CFL’s decision remains under review by the league’s legal advisory board, with a final ruling expected by July 10, 2026. For now, teams are prohibited from contacting Sorsby or offering him contracts, according to league rules.
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