Jewish QB Retzlaff transfers from BYU to Tulane

As one of only three Jewish students at BYU, where over 98 % of the campus adheres to the Mormon faith, Retzlaff earned the affectionate nickname “BYJew.”

Jake Retzlaff, Brigham Young University’s first Jewish starting quarterback, has officially entered the transfer portal and committed to Tulane University for the upcoming season. Retzlaff’s move follows his withdrawal from BYU in early July 2025 amid a suspension tied to an honor code violation relating to premarital sex and a dismissed civil lawsuit.

During his remarkable tenure at BYU,Retzlaff not only led the Cougars to an 11‑2 record and an Alamo Bowl win in 2024 but also took on a unique role as a visible and influential Jewish athlete in a predominantly Latter‑day Saint environment.

As one of only three Jewish students at BYU, where over 98 % of the campus adheres to the Mormon faith, Retzlaff earned the affectionate nickname “BYJew” and used his platform to share his religious traditions while uniting diverse faith communities.

Retzlaff wore a Star of David necklace on campus

Retzlaff actively engaged with his Jewish faith on campus – wearing a Star of David necklace, attending Shabbat dinners with a local rabbi, lighting the first public menorah in Provo, and even wrapping tefillin on the BYU field. His visibility provided young Jewish athletes with a role model and helped spark genuine curiosity and dialogue across campus about Jewish identity and practices.

He also inked a name, image, and likeness (NIL) deal with Manischewitz, becoming the brand’s first athlete partner and advocating for Jewish culture through special-edition matzo boxes and holiday content.

Now at Tulane, where he’ll join as a walk-on, Retzlaff aims to continue his football journey in a fresh environment. While his departure marks the end of an era at BYU, his legacy as a proud Jewish athlete who redefined what visibility and diversity can mean in college sports remains firmly intact.