Jake Retzlaff’s career at BYU is hanging by a thread. The Cougars’ starting quarterback faces a seven-game suspension after violating the program’s honor code, and rather than serving the time, he’s expected to hit the transfer portal.
Head coach Kalani Sitake finally broke his silence on the situation, but his comments added more questions than answers.
What Did BYU HC Kalani Sitake Say About Jake Retzlaff’s Situation and Potential Departure?
For the first time since Jake Retzlaff’s potential departure made headlines, BYU HC Kalani Sitake addressed the situation publicly.
The Cougars’ coach kept his comments brief but revealing. He confirmed he hadn’t discussed the matter in a team meeting, noting that players were already aware of the situation. Sitake praised Retzlaff’s contributions to the program but made it clear he wouldn’t elaborate further.
BYU coach Kalani Sitake on the departure of Jake Retzlaff: “We love Jake and appreciate everything he’s done for us, but I’ll let him make statements about his situation.”
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) July 8, 2025
“We love Jake and appreciate everything he’s done for us, but I’ll let him make statements about his situation,” Sitake said ahead of Big 12 Media Days via ESPN’s Pete Thamel.
The situation stems from serious allegations. Retzlaff reportedly faces a seven-game suspension for violating BYU’s honor code and is expected to enter the transfer portal rather than serve the suspension.
The controversy traces back to a civil lawsuit filed in May 2025, where a woman identified as Jane Doe A.G. accused Retzlaff of sexual assault during a November 2023 encounter at his Provo apartment.
Retzlaff denied the allegations, claiming the encounter was consensual. The lawsuit was withdrawn on June 30, but BYU’s honor code, which prohibits premarital sex, remains at the center of the disciplinary action against the quarterback.
How Does BYU’s Honor Code Impact Student-Athletes?
BYU’s honor code, rooted in the teachings of the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, sets strict behavioral expectations for all students and staff. The code covers multiple areas of personal conduct that extend far beyond the football field.
Key requirements include:
- Abstaining from sexual relations outside of heterosexual marriage
- Avoiding alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea, and drug use
- Upholding honesty, modesty, and respect for others
- Maintaining an ecclesiastical endorsement and attending church services
- Following grooming and dress standards
Violations can result in suspension or expulsion, regardless of legal outcomes. Even if criminal charges are dropped or civil lawsuits are withdrawn, the university can still take disciplinary action based on honor code violations.
RELATED: BYU Faces Quarterback Shakeup as Jake Retzlaff Prepares To Transfer Amid Major Off-Field Allegations
The timing couldn’t be worse for BYU’s program. Retzlaff threw for 2,947 yards and 20 touchdowns in the 2024 season while leading the Cougars to an 11-2 finish and a No. 13 AP ranking. The quarterback graduated from BYU, meaning he would enter the transfer portal as a grad transfer once he officially makes the move.
If Retzlaff departs or serves his suspension, the quarterback battle will likely come down to McCae Hillstead, Bear Bachmeier, and Treyson Bourguet. The Cougars now face the challenge of replacing their starting quarterback just as they prepare for another season in the competitive Big 12 Conference.
