Haener Officially Exits Fresno State. Some Fans Think He's a 'Traitor.'

By David Taub, Senior Reporter

Published 4 years ago on

December 2, 2021

In a season of national rankings, Heisman talk, and heart-stopping victories, quarterback Jake Haener announced he is leaving Fresno State.

“The decision I’m making has been the hardest of my life. Truly. My greatest memories have been made as a Bulldog and the people I’ve met here will forever be close to me. I gave my heart to this Valley and I want everyone to know this place will always be special to me,” Haener wrote on Instagram on Thursday.

Earlier this week, Haener entered the college football transfer portal, allowing him to join another program. On Monday, head coach Kalen DeBoer left Fresno State for the University of Washington. The overwhelming speculation is that he’ll rejoin DeBoer in Seattle.

“I haven’t made a decision yet,” Haener told GV Wire about where he is headed. And, he did not have further comment on his social media posts, hoping people would understand “but they probably wouldn’t.”

Jake Haener confirmed on Thursday that he’s leaving Fresno State. Sheets hung on campus called him a “traitor.” (GV Wire Composite/Jahz Tello)

Haener Started in Washington

Haener was initially recruited by Washington, redshirting in 2017 and playing in four games in 2018. He transferred to Fresno State in 2019, having to sit out that season based on NCAA rules.

Because of the pandemic, Haener and all players were granted an extra year of eligibility. If he transfers, he would immediately be allowed to play a sixth season.

Haener received national attention after a near-victory at Oregon and an extraordinary performance in a come-from-behind victory at UCLA. That propelled the Bulldogs into a national ranking and Heisman talk for Haener.

Responding to the Hate

In his Instagram posts, Haener posted pictures of a banner placed on a goalpost and the University Union saying “Haener is Traitor.”

Haener responded.

“Wish you guys nothing but the best. Only if y’all understood. Have a little perspective that’s all. I love this town and love this valley,” Haener wrote.

A New Hope?

Adrian Martinez, the Clovis West product who has started at quarterback for Nebraska, announced on social media that he was entering the transfer portal.

“I am excited for the next opportunity ahead,” he wrote.

Martinez has been a starter since his 2018 freshman season. The speculation has already started whether a return home is possible.

Fresno? https://t.co/NRUXfj9B4u

— Mike Oz (@mikeoz) December 2, 2021

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David Taub,

Senior Reporter

Curiosity drives David Taub. The award-winning journalist might be shy, but feels mighty with a recorder in his hand. He doesn't see it his job to "hold public officials accountable," but does see it to provide readers (and voters) the information needed to make intelligent choices. Taub has been honored with several writing awards from the California News Publishers Association. He's just happy to have his stories read. Joining GV Wire in 2016, Taub covers politics, government and elections, mainly in the Fresno/Clovis area. He also writes columns about local eateries (Appetite for Fresno), pro wrestling (Off the Bottom Rope), and media (Media Man). Prior to joining the online news source, Taub worked as a radio producer for KMJ and PowerTalk 96.7 in Fresno. He also worked as an assignment editor for KCOY-TV in Santa Maria, California, and KSEE-TV in Fresno. He has also worked behind the scenes for several sports broadcasts, including the NCAA basketball tournament, and the Super Bowl. When not spending time with his family, Taub loves to officially score Fresno Grizzlies games. Growing up in the San Francisco Bay Area, Taub is a die-hard Giants and 49ers fan. He graduated from the University of Michigan with dual degrees in communications and political science. Go Blue! You can contact David at 559-492-4037 or at Send an Email