Jake Retzlaff releases statement on decision to withdraw from BYU

BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff released a statement and confirmed he plans to withdraw from the school. ESPN’s Pete Thamel reported Retzlaff’s intention to enroll at another school and walk on, meaning he does not have to enter the transfer portal.

Retzlaff was anticipating a suspension for breaking BYU’s honor code, and the expectation was he’d leave the school as a result. If the school deemed him a “Designated Student Athlete,” he could have entered the portal during the one-time portal window from July 7 through Aug. 5.

On3’s Pete Nakos previously reported a withdrawal could be in the cards for Retzlaff. If he entered the portal, he would have needed to secure a waiver to play in 2025. Now, he’s following a similar path to the one former Wisconsin DB Xavier Lucas took this offseason.

Statement from BYU QB Jake Retzlaff announcing his departure: https://t.co/Bq6sVDrV3B pic.twitter.com/ckYFFmDZhn

— Pete Nakos (@PeteNakos_) July 11, 2025

“After a lot of prayer, reflection, and conversations with those I trust, I’ve made the difficult decision to officially withdraw from BYU and step away from the BYU Football program,” Retzlaff’s statement read. “BYU has meant more to me than just football. It’s been a place of growth – spiritually, mentally, and physically. I’m grateful for every teammate, coach, staff member, and fan who’s supported me along the way. The relationships and memories I’ve made in Provo will always be a part of me.

“That said, I’m excited to turn the page and embrace the next chapter. My journey is far from over – and I’m more motivated than ever to keep chasing my goals.”

Retzlaff was accused of sexually assaulting a woman in November 2023, according to a lawsuit filed last month. The woman alleged Retzlaff assaulted her in inside his home after they’d connected over social media and had been messaging for a month, per the Salt Lake Tribune. She withdrew the civil case last month.

The quarterback denied the allegations through his attorney, per the Tribune, and noted in a legal filing that he had “consensual” sex with the accuser. BYU’s honor code sets strict guidelines for its students, including the prohibition of premarital sex.

Speaking at Big 12 Media Days earlier this week, BYU coach Kalani Sitake received questions about Jake Retzlaff’s situation and what could lie ahead. He declined to comment, opting to wait until Retzlaff spoke out and addressed where things stand.

“We love Jake and appreciate everything he’s done for us, but I’ll let him make statements about his situation,” Sitake said, via ESPN.