BYU Coach Kalani Sitake Breaks Silence on QB Jake Retzlaff’s Future Amid Potential Suspension and Transfer Rumors
Brigham Young University (BYU) football coach Kalani Sitake has spoken publicly about the uncertain future of his quarterback, Jake Retzlaff, whose status with the team remains unresolved following reports of a potential transfer and disciplinary action. At the recent Big 12 media day, Sitake admitted that there’s no definitive clarity regarding Retzlaff’s return, though he emphasized that he’s preparing the team for any scenario.
Retzlaff, who led the Cougars through a strong season in 2024, has been at the center of controversy after reports surfaced suggesting he might transfer due to possible disciplinary consequences stemming from an alleged honor code violation. Although the player has not confirmed his plans publicly, his teammates and coaches have acknowledged the likelihood of his departure.
Chase Roberts, a BYU wide receiver and close friend of Retzlaff, spoke candidly to The Athletic, hinting that the quarterback likely won’t be back. “Jake and I are close, and I really hope he finds success wherever he ends up,” Roberts said. “It’s hard to say what exactly will happen, but it seems like he won’t be returning to BYU. We’ll definitely miss him, but I respect whatever choice he makes.”
The turbulence around Retzlaff’s standing with the program follows a civil lawsuit filed in May 2025, in which a Salt Lake City woman accused the quarterback of sexual assault stemming from an incident in 2023. Retzlaff denied the allegations, claiming the encounter was consensual. The lawsuit, however, was later dropped, and a judge issued a dismissal, putting an end to legal proceedings.
Despite the dismissal, Retzlaff’s acknowledgment of a premarital sexual relationship put him in violation of BYU’s strict honor code. As a private university owned and operated by The Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints, BYU maintains a rigorous set of behavioral guidelines for its students. Among these rules is a requirement to abstain from any sexual activity outside of marriage between a man and a woman. Violating these standards can result in disciplinary action ranging from probation to suspension or expulsion.
As a result, even though the legal case has been resolved, Retzlaff could still face internal consequences from the university. Multiple reports indicate that he could be suspended for up to seven games if he remains with the football team in the upcoming 2025 season. When asked whether the possible suspension would still apply if Retzlaff decided to transfer, Coach Sitake declined to comment.
Sitake stressed that his focus remains on preparing the team for any possibility. “It’s my responsibility to get this team ready to compete, no matter what happens,” Sitake stated. “Whether Jake returns or not, we will make sure we’re prepared. My job is to look ahead and plan for all outcomes.”
The situation has intensified scrutiny of BYU’s honor code, which has often been a topic of debate within and outside the college sports community. In addition to the chastity clause, the code demands honesty and prohibits the use of alcohol, tobacco, coffee, tea, vaping products, marijuana, and other controlled substances. While some view the code as a moral compass and a defining element of BYU’s identity, others believe it places an added burden on student-athletes and makes recruiting more difficult.
Sitake addressed these challenges, acknowledging that opposing programs sometimes use BYU’s honor code as a tool in negative recruiting. However, he defended the code, calling it a strength rather than a liability.
“I don’t run from it. Our program has standards, and they’re non-negotiable,” Sitake said. “Yes, it’s different from most places, but that’s what makes us unique. We attract people who are not just committed to football, but to a way of life that reflects our values. That gives us an edge.”
He continued, “If someone isn’t willing to live up to those expectations, then BYU simply isn’t the right place for them — and that’s okay. We want players who fully embrace what we stand for, on and off the field.”
The uncertainty around Retzlaff’s status has opened the door for other quarterbacks on the roster to make their case as the team prepares for the upcoming season. Sitake named three key players who could take over the starting role if Retzlaff doesn’t return: junior Treyson Bourguet, redshirt sophomore McCae Hillstead, and true freshman Bear Bachmeier.
Bourguet, who transferred from Western Michigan, and Hillstead, who previously played at Utah State, both bring prior starting experience to the table. Bachmeier, while younger and less seasoned, is also seen as a promising talent.
“We’ve got some strong options at quarterback,” Sitake said. “They’re all leaders and competitors. It’s going to come down to who earns it in camp. The position is wide open, and may the best man win.”
Retzlaff, who passed for nearly 3,000 yards with 20 touchdowns and 11 interceptions last season, was pivotal in BYU’s 11-2 campaign that ended with a No. 13 national ranking. His performance turned heads in the college football landscape and elevated expectations for the Cougars heading into the next season.
But now, the uncertainty surrounding his future has left fans and analysts wondering what’s next for both him and the team. While a formal announcement from Retzlaff is still pending, the writing on the wall suggests a separation is imminent.
BYU’s athletic department has declined to provide further details, stating they have no additional comments regarding the situation.
As the first game of the 2025 season approaches, the Cougars find themselves preparing under a cloud of uncertainty, with one of their biggest stars possibly headed out the door and a public conversation brewing about the role and reach of the university’s honor code.
Coach Sitake, however, remains steadfast. “This is a team sport,” he said. “No one player defines our identity or our success. We’ll continue to move forward and be ready for whatever comes.
