When Jake Retzlaff stepped back onto the field at BYU’s 2026 Pro Day on Friday, March 20, it wasn’t just another workout; it was a statement about resilience, growth, and unfinished business.
Now coming off a strong run with Tulane, Retzlaff returned to Provo not only to showcase his skills for NFL scouts but also to reconnect with a program that helped shape his journey.
BYU’s Track Record of NFL QBs Strengthens Jake Retzlaff’s Outlook
Throwing to familiar targets like Chase Roberts, the moment symbolized both how far he’s come and how much support still exists within BYU’s walls. That support starts at the top. Despite the circumstances surrounding Retzlaff’s earlier suspension and departure, head coach Kalani Sitake made it clear he believes the quarterback still has a future at the next level.
“We have a good history of some quarterbacks that are still in the league,” Sitake said when discussing Retzlaff’s NFL outlook. It’s a telling endorsement. Rather than focusing on the past, Sitake pointed to BYU’s track record of developing pro-level talent, subtly reinforcing that Retzlaff has the tools to follow a similar path.
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In an era where transfers and exits can create friction, especially in a situation like Retzlaff’s, Sitake’s message carried weight. Retzlaff wasn’t just welcomed back; he was embraced. The moment reflected a culture built on relationships, accountability, and long-term belief in players, regardless of how their college careers unfold.
Retzlaff’s growth since leaving BYU only strengthens Sitake’s confidence. After transferring to Tulane, he took a noticeable step forward in his development. His command of the offense improved, his decision-making sharpened, and his overall production reached new highs.
His PFSN CFB QB Impact score jumped to 86.6 this past season, a significant rise from 75.4 the year prior, evidence that experience and opportunity helped unlock his potential. He showed the same dual-threat capability at quarterback he did with BYU at Tulane, but upped his game a bit more with the extra seasoning.
At the same time, BYU found its own path forward. What initially looked like a setback turned into a turning point. Sitake and his staff retooled the offense, and the program responded with a run to the Big 12 Championship Game along with a 2025 Pop-Tarts Bowl victory.
The emergence of freshman quarterback Bear Bachmeier, who helped spark the BYU offense to have a PFSN CFB Offensive Impact score of 82.7, good for the top 25 nationally, suggested the Cougars may have found a new long-term answer under center.
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In the end, both sides benefited. Retzlaff led Tulane to an AAC Championship while putting together the most complete season of his career. BYU evolved into a conference contender with a new identity. And now, with the NFL Draft looming, their paths intersect once again, this time with mutual respect and shared optimism.
Retzlaff’s return to Pro Day wasn’t just about proving himself to scouts. It was about showing how far he’s come and reminding everyone, including his former head coach, that his story is far from finished. With Sitake’s public backing and BYU’s proven quarterback pipeline behind him, Retzlaff enters the next phase of his career with something every prospect needs.
