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Provo Today
By the People, for the People
BYU Removes Star Wide Receiver Parker Kingston From Football Program
Kingston faces first-degree felony rape charges for alleged 2025 incident
Published on Feb. 14, 2026
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Brigham Young University has removed star wide receiver Parker Kingston from the football program after he was arrested and charged with first-degree felony rape for an alleged incident that occurred in February 2025. The university said it was only made aware of the investigation and allegations this week, leading to Kingston's swift dismissal from the team.
Why it matters
This case highlights the complex issues universities face in balancing student-athlete discipline, criminal allegations, and due process. BYU took a different approach than with a previous case involving a civil lawsuit, moving quickly to remove Kingston from the program once aware of the criminal charges.
The details
Kingston, who had a breakout 2024 season and was expected to be BYU's top receiver in 2026, was arrested and booked into Washington County Jail. The charges stem from an alleged incident in February 2025, after which a nearly year-long investigation by the Washington County Attorney's Office led to the arrest this month. Kingston had his first court appearance on Friday.
- The alleged incident occurred in February 2025.
- Kingston was arrested on February 11, 2026, nearly a year after the alleged incident.
- BYU said it only became aware of the investigation and allegations this week, leading to Kingston's removal from the program on February 14, 2026.
The players
Parker Kingston
A former star wide receiver for the BYU football team who has been charged with first-degree felony rape for an alleged incident in 2025.
Brigham Young University (BYU)
The university that has removed Parker Kingston from its football program following his arrest on criminal charges.
Kalani Sitake
The head coach of the BYU football team who was made aware of the allegations against Kingston this week.
Jake Retzlaff
A former BYU starting quarterback who was named in a civil lawsuit alleging sexual assault, but never faced criminal charges.
Washington County Attorney's Office
The office that conducted the nearly year-long investigation that led to Kingston's arrest.
What they’re saying
“As of Friday, Parker Kingston is no longer a student at Brigham Young University and is no longer a member of the BYU football team.”
— Brigham Young University (si.com)
“University administration and athletic administration, including BYU Head Coach Kalani Sitake, were only made aware of the investigation and allegations after Kingston's arrest this past Wednesday, Feb. 11.”
— Brigham Young University (si.com)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Parker Kingston to be released on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights the difficult balance universities must strike between student-athlete discipline, due process, and public perception when faced with serious criminal allegations. BYU's swift action to remove Kingston from the program contrasts with its more lenient approach in a previous civil case, underscoring the complex issues at play.
