BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff has decided to withdraw from school and pursue a transfer path outside of the NCAA Transfer Portal. According to ESPN insider Pete Thamel, Retzlaff plans to enroll at a new school as a walk-on graduate transfer rather than going through a formal transfer process.
Retzlaff’s decision comes after he admitted to having a “consensual” sexual relationship in court documents, which violates BYU’s strict student honor code. He announced the move himself on social media, stating that he is grateful for his time at BYU and excited to turn the page and start a new chapter.
The 22-year-old quarterback graduated in April and can transfer wherever he pleases. In 2024, he threw for 2,947 yards and 20 touchdowns while also running for 417 yards and six scores. It is unclear which school Retzlaff might be considering transferring to, but it’s likely that he will continue as a walk-on.
Retzlaff’s decision not to go through the NCAA Transfer Portal has been attributed to being left off BYU’s “designated student-athlete” list, which would have granted him special status and a one-time transfer opportunity. His attorneys denied the allegations of sexual assault from the start, even as the woman who filed a civil complaint against him sought punitive damages for alleged assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress.
Retzlaff has never been charged criminally and eventually withdrew her civil complaint against him. Despite the controversy surrounding his departure from BYU, Retzlaff expressed gratitude for his time at the university and promised to continue chasing his dreams in his next chapter.
Source: https://www.on3.com/college/byu-cougars/news/report-qb-jake-retzlaff-withdrawing-from-byu-not-expected-to-enter-ncaa-transfer-portal