Shocking Exit: BYU’s Chase Roberts Leaves Program, Blames Locker Room Tension

Shocking Exit: BYU’s Chase Roberts Leaves Program, Blames Locker Room Tension

In a shocking development just months before the start of the 2025 college football season, BYU Cougars standout wide receiver Chase Roberts announced his decision to leave the team, citing frustration and exhaustion with the current state of the program.

The junior receiver, who was expected to be a cornerstone of the Cougars’ offense this season, made the announcement via a candid statement posted on social media late Wednesday night. The message was direct and emotional, revealing a level of discontent that few outside the program had seen coming.

> “After a lot of thought and countless conversations with those closest to me, I’ve made the difficult decision to step away from BYU Football,” Roberts wrote. “This isn’t about chasing something else or transferring — I’m simply tired. Tired of the culture, tired of feeling like a number, and tired of pretending everything is okay when it’s not.”

The post sent shockwaves through Cougar Nation and the broader college football world, as Roberts was not only one of BYU’s most productive players but also considered a leader in the locker room. His 2024 campaign saw him post 742 receiving yards and six touchdowns, often making acrobatic plays that energized fans and gave BYU momentum during tough stretches of the season.

A Building Frustration

Though Roberts’ announcement was sudden, some close to the program say the signs of discontent had been building over time. According to multiple sources who spoke on the condition of anonymity, Roberts had expressed frustration with what he perceived as a lack of direction and cohesion within the coaching staff. Others pointed to growing tension among players over playing time, locker room dynamics, and the team’s adjustment to the Big 12 conference.

“There’s been some internal stuff for a while that never really got addressed,” one former teammate said. “Chase is a guy who gives everything — on and off the field. When guys like that start feeling unappreciated or unheard, it can spiral.”

Roberts’ departure raises difficult questions for BYU head coach Kalani Sitake and his staff, who are already facing pressure after a disappointing 2024 season in which the Cougars finished 5-7, missing out on bowl eligibility. With star quarterback Kedon Slovis graduating and the offense already in transition, the loss of Roberts adds another challenge to an uncertain offseason.

Coach Sitake Responds

Coach Sitake released a brief statement Thursday morning in response to Roberts’ announcement:

> “Chase has been an important part of our program, and we’re grateful for the time and effort he gave to BYU. While we’re disappointed to see him go, we respect his decision and wish him nothing but the best moving forward.”

Sitake did not elaborate on the issues Roberts cited, but sources within the athletic department say the coaching staff is expected to address team culture during spring meetings.

Fans React

The reaction from BYU fans has been swift and divided. While many have expressed support for Roberts and praised his honesty, others voiced concern about what his departure says about the state of the program.

“This should be a wake-up call,” one fan wrote on X (formerly Twitter). “When a guy like Chase walks away before the season even starts, something is wrong inside that locker room.”

Others wondered if this might lead to a ripple effect among other key players.

“Chase leaving might just be the tip of the iceberg,” said a longtime season ticket holder. “I hope the coaching staff understands how serious this is.”

What’s Next for Roberts

Despite clarifying that he is not currently planning to transfer, speculation has already begun about Roberts’ future. Given his talent and proven track record, it’s likely that several Power Five programs would welcome him should he reconsider continuing his college football career elsewhere.

Still, those close to Roberts insist his decision is not about seeking a better football opportunity, but rather about regaining a sense of purpose and peace away from a situation that has become emotionally draining.

“Chase has always been a passionate, driven person,” said one former BYU assistant coach. “If he’s stepping away, it’s because he truly needs to. That’s not a decision he would take lightly.”

Implications for BYU Football

For BYU, Roberts’ departure leaves a significant hole in both production and leadership. The team’s wide receiver room, already dealing with depth issues, now turns to younger players like Parker Kingston and Darius Lassiter to step up in Roberts’ absence.

It also places added pressure on the Cougars’ offensive scheme heading into fall camp. With a new starting quarterback and questions on the offensive line, losing their top receiver compounds the team’s challenges.

“We’ve got a lot to prove,” offensive coordinator Aaron Roderick said during a recent spring practice interview. “There’s no hiding that. But I believe in this group.”

Final Thoughts

Chase Roberts’ decision to walk away from BYU Football is more than just a roster move — it’s a statement. Whether his words spark real change within the program remains to be seen, but one thing is clear: one of the Cougars’ brightest stars has left the field, and the team will have to find its way without him.