Texas Tech lands potential Brendan Sorsby replacement

Quarterback Thomas Castellanos. IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

Texas Tech lands potential Brendan Sorsby replacement

By Andrew Wright | Last updated Aug 26, 2026 4:43 PM ET

The quarterback situation at Texas Tech has taken another unexpected turn.

After the Red Raiders saw their highly touted transfer addition Brendan Sorsby’s season unravel amid a gambling controversy and legal battle, they have turned back to the transfer portal, this time landing former Florida State quarterback Thomas Castellanos just weeks before the 2026 season begins.

Thomas Castellanos also had a complicated offseason

Castellanos declared for the NFL Draft at the end of the college season but later withdrew his name to file lawsuits and seek a fifth year of eligibility.

Castellanos was finally cleared just a few short weeks ago and entered the transfer portal on Aug. 24. He now lands at Texas Tech, the fourth program he'll play for, joining UCF, Boston College and Florida State.

The wild chain of events that landed Thomas Castellanos at Texas Tech:

12/23: Castellanos declares for NFL Draft

1/4: Sorsby commits

4/14: TTU notified of Sorsby gambling investigation

6/8: Sorsby granted injunction

6/15: Castellanos drops lawsuit/quits

8/24: Castellanos… https://t.co/QpJZ69u6U6
— Hayes Fawcett (@Hayesfawcett3) August 26, 2026

Thomas Castellanos may spend time at receiver

According to On3's Pete Nakos, Castellanos' agency revealed that he'd be willing to split out and play some receiver if needed.

Castellanos spent the latter part of his pro day doing wide receiver drills, so there is a possibility he could be spread out wide and play some receiver this season.

How will the quarterback situation play out?

Ultimately, he will give the Red Raiders versatility and competition for projected starter Will Hammond.

It will be intriguing to see if head coach Joey McGuire gives each of his quarterbacks equal playing time in the first two weeks of the season against Abilene Christian and Oregon State before a massive Week 3 game against the Houston Cougars.

Andrew Wright

Andrew "Dew" Wright graduated from Charleston Southern University with a degree in Communication Studies. He is a lifelong Chicago Cubs and Washington Commanders fan.

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