In a development that has sent shockwaves through the college football community, Brigham Young University (BYU) quarterback Jake Retzlaff is facing a civil lawsuit filed in Salt Lake County, Utah, accusing him of sexual assault, battery, and intentional infliction of emotional distress. The lawsuit, filed on May 21, 2025, alleges that Retzlaff raped, strangled, and bit a woman identified as Jane Doe A.G. during an encounter in November 2023 at his residence in Provo, Utah .
According to the complaint, the two initially connected through social media. The woman claims that upon visiting Retzlaff’s home, he ignored her protests and physically overpowered her. She later underwent a hospital examination that documented injuries consistent with her allegations . The lawsuit also accuses Provo police of discouraging her from pursuing criminal charges, allegedly stating that sexual assault victims “never get justice.” The Provo Police Department has denied these claims, asserting that investigators and victim advocates acted in accordance with protocols but were unable to proceed due to lack of actionable information at the time .
Retzlaff, 22, has denied the accusations through his attorney, Mark Baute, who previously defended NBA player Derrick Rose. Baute has declared Retzlaff “factually innocent” and emphasized the intent to prove this in court .
BYU has acknowledged awareness of the allegations and stated that it will follow Title IX protocols but declined further comment due to privacy laws .
Retzlaff, who transferred from Riverside City College, became BYU’s starting quarterback in 2024, leading the team to an 11-2 season and an Alamo Bowl victory. He recorded nearly 3,000 passing yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions and is expected to continue as starting quarterback in the upcoming season .
As this case unfolds, it raises significant questions about the intersection of collegiate athletics, institutional accountability, and the handling of sexual assault allegations. The outcome will undoubtedly have far-reaching implications for all parties involved.
