BYU Officials Send Clear Message About Jake Retzlaff’s Future in Provo

BYU officials have maintained a cautious

stance regarding quarterback Jake Retzlaff’s future with the football program following a civil lawsuit filed against him on May 21, 2025, alleging sexual assault. At the Big 12 spring meetings, university representatives, including President C. Shane Reese, Athletic Director Brian Santiago, and Head Coach Kalani Sitake, declined to provide additional comments, referring inquiries to the university’s initial statement.

The university’s statement emphasized that BYU takes such allegations seriously and will follow all mandated Title IX processes. Due to privacy laws, no further details were disclosed.

Retzlaff’s attorney, Mark Baute, has publicly declared his client’s “factual innocence” and expressed confidence in proving it through the legal system.

As the legal proceedings are unlikely to conclude before the start of the football season, BYU faces a decision on whether to allow Retzlaff to play or to suspend him pending the outcome.

In preparation for potential changes, the coaching staff is evaluating backup quarterbacks McCae Hillstead and Treyson Bourguet, both of whom have shown promise during spring practices. Offensive Coordinator Aaron Roderick noted that the competition between the two is close, and the team could win games with either at the helm.

The situation remains fluid, and BYU officials have not indicated a timeline for a final decision regarding Retzlaff’s participation in the upcoming season.