The unexpected departure of quarterback Jake Retzlaff has left BYU football facing significant questions at one of the most critical positions on the field. Retzlaff, who was expected to compete for the starting job in 2025, was seen as a potential leader for a Cougars team aiming to rebound after a disappointing Big 12 campaign. Now, with Retzlaff out of the picture, head coach Kalani Sitake and his staff must reassess their quarterback depth chart and quickly identify a reliable option moving forward.
Retzlaff brought experience and a dynamic skill set to the position, starting several games during the 2023 season and showing flashes of promise. Though the offense struggled with consistency during his time under center, he was viewed as someone who could grow into the role with more time in the system. His departure not only disrupts continuity but also puts added pressure on the younger and less proven quarterbacks in the program.
Among the remaining options are redshirt freshmen and incoming recruits, but none have taken meaningful snaps at the collegiate level. The situation could force BYU to explore the transfer portal once again, hoping to find a late addition who can stabilize the position before fall camp begins.
This development comes at a critical time for the Cougars, who are still adjusting to the week-in, week-out grind of Big 12 competition. Offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick will need to tailor his scheme to whoever wins the job, which adds another layer of complexity to preseason preparations.
With so much uncertainty now clouding the quarterback room, BYU faces a pivotal stretch in the lead-up to the 2025 season. Retzlaff’s exit may have closed one chapter, but it has also opened a high-stakes quarterback competition that could define the team’s success in the comin
g year.
