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Jake Retzlaff commits to Tulane after leaving BYU

Jake Retzlaff, former BYU QB, will join Tulane as a walk-on amid prior controversies.

July 21, 2025 at 03:10 PM

Jake Retzlaff to commit to Tulane after BYU exit, sources say

Quarterback Jake Retzlaff's move to Tulane comes after significant challenges at BYU.

Jake Retzlaff commits to Tulane following BYU controversy

Quarterback Jake Retzlaff has announced his verbal commitment to transfer to Tulane University after withdrawing from Brigham Young University (BYU). This decision follows a suspension from BYU for violating the institution's honor code and allegations of sexual assault made against him in a lawsuit earlier this year. Although the lawsuit was dismissed and Retzlaff consistently denied the allegations, the impact of these events on his career remains significant. He will likely join Tulane as a walk-on and compete for the starting quarterback role in the upcoming season. This transfer is made complex by the fact that he could not enter the NCAA transfer portal, as he was just short of his degree when he left BYU. Tulane had vetted Retzlaff's background internally before his commitment, and he looks poised to make strides on the field with a coach he has a prior relationship with. The quarterback position at Tulane is currently competitive, as they reshape their roster with multiple transfers and recent departures.

Key Takeaways

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Jake Retzlaff departs BYU amid controversy over a sexual assault lawsuit.

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He has committed to join Tulane University as a walk-on.

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The lawsuit against Retzlaff was dismissed with prejudice in June.

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His relationship with head coach Jon Sumrall influenced the transfer.

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Tulane's quarterback situation is uncertain with multiple transfers in line.

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Retzlaff must compete for a starting spot in a crowded quarterback room.

"Retzlaff denied each and every allegation against him."

The denial reflects his stance amid serious accusations.

"He will need to earn the starting job at Tulane."

This indicates that he faces competition and pressure in his new environment.

"Tulane’s staff vetted Retzlaff thoroughly before his commitment."

This underscores the due diligence universities apply when recruiting players with complex backgrounds.

"The quarterback landscape at Tulane is layered in ambiguity."

This highlights the uncertainty of who will lead the team moving forward.

Retzlaff's transfer illustrates both the personal and institutional conflict that can sway college athletes’ careers. The rapid transfer from BYU to Tulane highlights the ongoing issues facing players embroiled in legal and honor code controversies. As universities navigate these sensitive matters, the experiences of such athletes remain pivotal. It's noteworthy that despite the previous allegations, Tulane has chosen to embrace Retzlaff, signaling a possible shift in how programs handle players with complex pasts. The competitive landscape at Tulane adds a layer of pressure, underscoring the unpredictable nature of collegiate athletics, especially for a quarterback trying to establish his place after a turbulent exit from BYU.