BYU QB Jake Retzlaff Addresses Rape and Strangulation Allegations in Public Statement.

BYU Quarterback Jake Retzlaff Withdraws Amid Sexual Assault Case and Honor Code Violation

BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff has withdrawn from the university and its football program following a dismissed sexual assault lawsuit and an impending suspension for violating the school’s strict honor code. Retzlaff, a Jewish athlete known for coining the nickname “BYJew” during his time at the Mormon-owned institution, announced his departure on Instagram.

“After prayer and reflection, I’ve decided to withdraw from BYU and step away from football here,” Retzlaff wrote. “BYU has been a place of growth for me spiritually, mentally, and physically. I’m grateful for the support from teammates, coaches, and fans, but I’m ready to embrace my next chapter.”

Retzlaff announced his exit after facing suspension over an honor code violation.

The sexual assault lawsuit, filed by a woman seeking over $300,000 in damages, accused Retzlaff of assaulting her in November 2023. Retzlaff denied the allegations, calling them “ridiculous,” and the case was dismissed in late June following a mutual agreement between both parties. However, during legal proceedings, Retzlaff admitted to pre-marital sex—a violation of BYU’s honor code, which requires students to abstain from sex outside heterosexual marriage, avoid alcohol, coffee, and profanity, and participate in church service (for Mormon students).

BYU’s punishment for the violation would have sidelined Retzlaff for seven games, including high-profile matchups against Stanford, Colorado, and the rivalry game against Utah. The suspension reportedly motivated his decision to leave.

Retzlaff’s departure follows the dismissal of the assault lawsuit but upheld honor code sanctions.

Retzlaff, a junior, plans to transfer without using the NCAA portal, opting instead to unenroll and join another program. Though not Mormon, he became BYU’s first Jewish starting quarterback and embraced his heritage, signing a Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deal with kosher brand Manischewitz. The partnership included a commercial featuring Retzlaff autographing matzah.

Retzlaff’s NIL deal highlighted his unique background at the Mormon university.

Off the field, Retzlaff is rumored to be dating BYU softball player Jaelynn Lambert, a fellow California native. Photos of the pair have surfaced on his Instagram, though neither has confirmed the relationship.

Retzlaff and Lambert have sparked dating rumors through social media posts.

Retzlaff’s exit marks a tumultuous end to his BYU career, underscoring the challenges athletes face under the school’s rigid code. His next move remains undisclosed, but he vowed to continue pursuing his football ambitions elsewhere.

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