BYU QB Jake Retzlaff Plans Transfer Amid Civil Lawsuit, Suspension

BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff is planning to transfer from the school after being informed he faces a seven-game suspension for violating BYU's Honor Code by admitting to premarital sex, a revelation that surfaced amid a civil lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault. Retzlaff, who led BYU to an 11-2 record in 2024 and was expected to be a key player in 2025, denies the allegations, stating the encounter was consensual and characterizing the lawsuit as extortion. The lawsuit alleges rape, strangulation, and battery during a November 2023 encounter, while Retzlaff's legal response denies these claims and highlights ongoing communication between the parties. His departure forces BYU to prepare backup quarterbacks McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier for the starting role. Retzlaff's transfer opens up several potential landing spots, with speculation about programs in need of an experienced quarterback possibly pursuing him. BYU has declined to comment on specifics due to privacy laws but affirms adherence to Title IX protocols amid the ongoing legal and disciplinary proceedings.