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BYU Coach Welcomes Former QB Back for Pro Day Workout
Kalani Sitake embraces Jake Retzlaff's return to showcase talents for NFL scouts
Mar. 21, 2026 at 12:09am
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When former BYU quarterback Jake Retzlaff returned to Provo to participate in the school's 2026 Pro Day, it was more than just another workout. Head coach Kalani Sitake welcomed Retzlaff back with open arms, demonstrating the program's loyal culture and commitment to supporting players even after they've moved on.
Why it matters
Retzlaff's journey since leaving BYU, which included a successful stint at Tulane, highlights the evolving nature of college football in the transfer portal era. However, Sitake's gracious response shows that strong program cultures can endure despite player movement, reinforcing the importance of relationships and mutual respect in the sport.
The details
Retzlaff, who is now preparing for the NFL draft after his time at Tulane, threw passes to longtime friend and former BYU teammate Chase Roberts during the Pro Day. Despite the circumstances surrounding Retzlaff's earlier departure from the Cougars, Sitake made it clear that there were no hard feelings, emphasizing the program's mantra of 'Once a Cougar, always a Cougar.' Sitake's actions demonstrated the genuine care he has for his players, past and present, and the strength of the culture he has built at BYU.
- Retzlaff returned to BYU's Pro Day in March 2026.
The players
Kalani Sitake
The head coach of the BYU football program, known for his commitment to building a loyal and supportive culture within the team.
Jake Retzlaff
A former quarterback for the BYU Cougars who transferred to Tulane University, where he experienced a significant jump in performance and development before returning to BYU's Pro Day to showcase his talents for NFL scouts.
Chase Roberts
A longtime friend and former teammate of Jake Retzlaff at BYU, who caught passes from Retzlaff during the Pro Day workout.
What they’re saying
“Once a Cougar, always a Cougar.”
— Kalani Sitake, Head Coach, BYU Football
What’s next
The NFL draft will be the next major milestone for Jake Retzlaff as he looks to take the next step in his professional career.
The takeaway
This reunion between Retzlaff and BYU serves as a heartwarming example of the enduring power of college football's culture and relationships, even in an era of increased player movement. Sitake's gracious welcome of a former player showcases the program's commitment to supporting its athletes, both past and present, and reinforces the importance of fostering a strong, loyal community within the sport.
