Jake Retzlaff, a 22-year-old quarterback for Brigham Young University (BYU), is at the center of serious sexual assault allegations after a woman filed a civil lawsuit on Tuesday. The lawsuit, submitted in Utah’s 4th District Court, accuses Retzlaff of rape, strangulation, and physical assault during an encounter in November 2023. The plaintiff, identified as Jane Doe A.G., says the incident left her traumatized, injured, and seeking justice.
The woman says she met Retzlaff through social media, where they had exchanged messages and talked for several weeks. She claims she visited his apartment in Provo expecting a friendly interaction. What allegedly followed was a terrifying experience that, according to the lawsuit, included non-consensual sex, choking, and biting—leaving her physically injured and emotionally scarred.
A Night That Changed Everything
The lawsuit lays out disturbing details. The plaintiff says that after arriving at Retzlaff’s apartment, things quickly took a turn. Despite expressing discomfort and saying no, she alleges that Retzlaff became forceful and aggressive. According to her account, he overpowered her, strangled her to the point of unconsciousness, and raped her.
After the incident, she says she fled the apartment and sought help from a friend. She later went to a hospital, where doctors performed a forensic sexual assault exam. That examination reportedly documented physical injuries consistent with her account.
Legal Pushback from Retzlaff’s Team
Retzlaff has strongly denied all allegations. Through his attorney, Mark Baute, he issued a statement claiming the accusations are false and that he will fight them in court. Baute said Retzlaff maintains his innocence and believes the truth will eventually come out. He added that the quarterback remains focused on his athletic and academic responsibilities at BYU.
University and Police Respond
BYU confirmed it is aware of the civil lawsuit and has launched a Title IX review, which is standard procedure when dealing with allegations of this nature. Due to privacy laws, the university declined to share more specific information about Retzlaff’s status or any disciplinary action.
The lawsuit also names the Provo Police Department. It accuses officers of mishandling the plaintiff’s initial report by allegedly discouraging her from pressing criminal charges. Police officials have pushed back on that claim, saying their team—including victim advocates—acted professionally and followed the appropriate procedures. They maintain that no criminal charges were filed because the evidence available at the time didn’t support prosecution.
Ongoing Trauma and a Legal Fight Ahead
The woman who brought the suit says she’s still dealing with the mental and emotional toll of the alleged assault. According to her legal team, she suffers from post-traumatic stress disorder (PTSD), severe anxiety, and recurring nightmares. In addition to seeking damages, the lawsuit is meant to hold both Retzlaff and the police department accountable.
No criminal charges have been filed as of now. The lawsuit is strictly civil, but it could impact Retzlaff’s career and public image as the case unfolds.
Retzlaff’s Rise to Prominence
Jake Retzlaff came to BYU after transferring from Riverside City College in California. Known for his strong arm and leadership, he quickly made an impact. He took over as starting quarterback during the 2024 season and helped lead the Cougars to an impressive 11-2 record and a win in the Alamo Bowl. He threw for nearly 3,000 yards with 20 touchdowns.
He also drew attention off the field. Retzlaff is BYU’s first Jewish quarterback, a notable detail at a school known for its strong affiliation with the Church of Jesus Christ of Latter-day Saints. His visibility earned him a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal with a Jewish food company, further boosting his profile.
What’s Next?
The civil lawsuit is just beginning, and the legal process could take months or longer to play out. Both sides are preparing for a courtroom battle, and it remains to be seen whether criminal charges will follow. For now, the focus shifts to how the university, the public, and the legal system respond to the disturbing allegations against one of BYU’s most visible athletes.
