(BCSNN) -- BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff has officially withdrawn from the university and its football program, ending a tumultuous offseason that included a civil lawsuit and a reported seven-game suspension for violating the school’s honor code.

Retzlaff, who led the Cougars to an 11-2 record in 2024 and emerged as one of the Big 12’s top quarterbacks, announced his departure Friday via social media. “After a lot of prayer, reflection, and conversations with those I trust, I’ve made the difficult decision to officially withdraw from BYU and step away from the BYU Football program,” Retzlaff wrote. “I’m excited to turn the page and embrace the next chapter. My journey is far from over.”

The decision follows a civil suit filed in May accusing Retzlaff of sexual assault, which was dismissed on June 30 after both parties agreed to drop the case. While Retzlaff denied the allegations, he acknowledged engaging in premarital sex — a violation of BYU’s honor code. The university reportedly handed down a seven-game suspension, prompting Retzlaff to seek opportunities elsewhere.

Rather than enter the NCAA transfer portal, Retzlaff plans to enroll at a new institution as a walk-on, a move that allows him to bypass traditional transfer restrictions. According to multiple reports, several Power Four programs have expressed interest in the senior quarterback, who accounted for nearly 3,400 total yards and 26 touchdowns last season.

BYU head coach Kalani Sitake addressed the situation at Big 12 Media Days, saying, “We love Jake Retzlaff and appreciate all that he’s done for our program. I think it would be inappropriate for me to make a statement on his situation first. That is his right.”

With Retzlaff’s departure, BYU enters fall camp with a wide-open quarterback competition. Redshirt sophomore McCae Hillstead, transfer Treyson Bourguet, and freshman Bear Bachmeier are expected to battle for the starting role. The Cougars’ odds to win the Big 12 have dropped significantly, and their projected win total has dipped from 7.5 to 6.5, according to FanDuel.

Retzlaff’s unconventional transfer route — and BYU’s handling of the situation — could have broader implications for how honor code violations intersect with NCAA eligibility. For now, the Cougars are focused on regrouping, while Retzlaff looks to continue his career at a new program with hopes of playing immediately in 2025.