NIL
Former BYU Quarterback Jake Retzlaff Commits to Tulane
The Corona, California native spent the last two seasons in Provo, stepping into the starting role in 2024 and guiding the Cougars to an 11–2 record while throwing for nearly 3,000 yards and 20 touchdowns.
Retzlaff’s original exit from BYU followed a seven-game suspension for violating the school’s honor code after admitting to premarital sex—a violation of BYU’s strict moral standards. That removal came in the wake of a dismissed civil lawsuit accusing him of sexual assault. Retzlaff maintained the encounter was consensual.
After withdrawing from BYU on July 11, Retzlaff was cleared by Tulane’s vetting process, including the university’s Title IX office. He will join the Green Wave as a walk-on and compete for the starting quarterback role as fall camp approaches.
Retzlaff becomes the latest high-profile transfer to land with Tulane coach Jon Sumrall, who previously recruited him during his time at Troy. With new faces in the quarterback room, the Green Wave offers Retzlaff a platform to reboot his career and start immediately.
At 6-foot-1 and 205 pounds, Retzlaff brings dual-threat ability, producing 417 rushing yards and six touchdowns alongside his passing numbers in 2024. That versatility aligns well with Tulane’s offensive system and gives the Green Wave an experienced option at the position.
This move also reflects a growing trend of Power Four departures amid changes in NIL and eligibility. Retzlaff is betting on immediate playing time over prestige, hoping a strong season in the newly rebranded American Conference will reestablish his reputation and return him to national relevance.
It’s now up to Retzlaff to turn this second chance into something tangible. For Tulane, adding a player with his track record could pay dividends in a competitive Group of Five league.
