BYU’s Jewish QB Signs NIL Deal With Matzo Brand Manischewitz
Jake Retzlaff, quarterback for 18th-ranked BYU, has signed a sponsorship deal with Manischewitz, marking the Jewish food brand’s first NIL partnership. Retzlaff is one of only three Jewish students at BYU and the first Jewish quarterback in the university’s history.
As part of the deal, Retzlaff will collaborate on video content to share his personal story, favorite recipes, and Jewish holiday traditions. The partnership also includes limited-edition matzo boxes featuring Retzlaff’s likeness. Financial terms of the agreement were not disclosed.
“I grew up loving matzo with peanut butter and making matzo pizza during Passover with my family,” Retzlaff said in a statement. “During Chanukah, we’d always make potato latkes. Now, at BYU, I get to share these traditions with my teammates.”
Retzlaff has embraced his role as a cultural ambassador in Utah, where fewer than 1% of residents identify as Jewish. Last year, he organized Provo’s first public menorah lighting during Hanukkah. He has also adopted the nickname “BYJew,” fostering a unique connection with the BYU community.
This season, Retzlaff has passed for 2,796 yards and 20 touchdowns (with 10 interceptions) while rushing for 388 yards and three scores in his sophomore year.
In their second year in the Big 12, BYU finished 10-2 but missed out on the championship game after losing two of their final three games. Arizona State and Iowa State will compete for the conference title on Saturday, while BYU awaits its bowl game assignment.