Provo, UT (June 30, 2025) — A civil lawsuit accusing BYU starting quarterback Jake Retzlaff of rape has been formally dismissed with prejudice, according to court documents filed this week. The decision, agreed to jointly by both parties, brings an end to a case that had cast uncertainty over Retzlaff’s future both at BYU and in college football.
No public comments have been issued by either side regarding the dismissal.
Legal Fallout, Honor Code Consequences
While no criminal charges have been filed, sources tell ESPN that Retzlaff is facing a potential seven-game suspension from BYU for violating the university’s strict honor code. The violation stems from Retzlaff’s admission during the legal proceedings to engaging in premarital sex — a breach of university policy. The 22-year-old senior has reportedly begun informing teammates and coaching staff of his intention to transfer.
The BYU football program, which is currently on break until July 7, has already begun preparing for Retzlaff’s possible absence. Backup quarterbacks McCae Hillstead, Treyson Bourguet, and Bear Bachmeier are expected to compete for the starting role in fall camp.
A Complicated Case
The lawsuit, filed last month, alleged that Retzlaff raped, strangled, and bit a woman during a late-night encounter in November 2023 at his Provo apartment. The woman, referred to as Jane Doe A.G., claimed she was invited over under the pretense of playing video games but was later assaulted after her friend left.
Retzlaff’s legal response denied the allegations, asserting that the encounter was consensual, and alleged that the suit was an attempt at extortion, noting the plaintiff continued communicating with Retzlaff in a seemingly friendly manner following the incident. Retzlaff’s legal team pointed to text exchanges and the timeline of the lawsuit as evidence that it was timed to exploit his growing NFL Draft stock.
The suit included graphic allegations, including that the woman said “no” and “wait, stop” during the encounter and claimed Retzlaff continued to force himself on her. She later went to the hospital and completed a rape kit. Provo police were involved, but according to public records, no charges were pursued.
A Familiar Pattern at BYU
Retzlaff’s case echoes previous honor code violations at BYU. In 2011, basketball star Brandon Davies was dismissed during the Cougars’ historic 27-2 season due to a similar violation. Football standout Reno Mahe also faced suspension in 1999, later transferring before returning to the program.
Despite the controversy, Retzlaff leaves behind a strong on-field legacy at BYU. In 2024, his first year as the full-time starter, he threw for 2,947 yards, 20 touchdowns, and 12 interceptions, leading the Cougars to an impressive 11-2 record.
What’s Next
With his college degree already completed, Retzlaff is expected to enter the NCAA transfer portal in the coming days. Though his next destination remains unclear, he brings with him experience, production, and controversy — making him a potentially high-risk, high-reward addition for a quarterback-needy program.
As for BYU, the Cougars must now prepare for life without their starting quarterback while continuing to navigate the complex balance between athletic success and adherence to university values.
