Following one of the most memorable seasons in program history, BYU Cougars football is now facing a wave of controversy. Quarterback Jake Retzlaff, who stood out as one of the Big 12’s top passers last season, has been accused of sexually assaulting a woman in an alleged 2023 incident.
Retzlaff previously denied the accusation, stating that the encounter with the accuser was consensual. However, engaging in sexual activity outside of marriage still violates BYU’s Honor Code, and the school is expected to suspend the star quarterback as a result.
The BYU star quarterback is bracing for a seven-game suspension multiple sources told The Salt Lake Tribune. Facing the reality of missing the majority of the 2025 season, Retzlaff has started notifying coaches and teammates of his likely decision to leave the program, according to a source with direct knowledge of the situation. The sources remained unnamed because they weren’t cleared to speak publicly.
The motion to dismiss the case will still undergo review by BYU officials. Since the university is affiliated with The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, it upholds a strict Honor Code that all students and employees are required to follow.
Two legal experts told The Salt Lake Tribune that the case won’t go to trial for several months. Utah civil cases follow a tiered discovery system tied to the damages sought. Tier 1 covers claims under $50,000 and allows 120 days for discovery. The lawsuit against Jake Retzlaff seeks over $300,000, placing it in Tier 3, which gives both sides 210 days to complete standard discovery. The lawsuit was filed on May 21.
Jake Retzlaff with the BYU Cougars
The 22-year-old had been projected as one of the top returning quarterbacks in both the Big 12 and the entire college football landscape. In 2024, he passed for 2,947 yards and 20 touchdowns against just 12 interceptions, helping keep BYU firmly in the Big 12 title race until the final week of the regular season.
Retzlaff’s departure would severely impact a BYU squad aiming high in 2025 after finishing 11-2 and dismantling Colorado in the Valero Alamo Bowl.
With Retzlaff likely to depart, BYU’s quarterback responsibilities could fall to either Utah State transfer McCae Hillstead or Western Michigan transfer Treyson Bourguet. Both signal callers bring minimal college experience, making either option a significant risk for head coach Kalani Sitake.
Retzlaff has requested the dismissal of the sexual assault case, but proceedings remain active. Regardless of the outcome, all signs point to him missing the upcoming season with BYU.
