Former Wisconsin football player Jack Pugh passes away at 24
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A former college football player has died at age 24. This week, the University of Wisconsin announced that former Badgers tight end Jack Pugh passed away on Monday night.
Pugh played for Wisconsin from 2021 to 2023, before retiring due to mental health concerns.
“The Wisconsin athletics family is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Pugh. Jack was a positive light and brought a genuine spirit to our football program,” the university said in a statement.
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“More than that, he cared about people and was loved by teammates and staff. Jack proudly earned his degree from UW-Madison in 2025 and will forever be remembered and loved.”
Our thoughts are with Jack’s family during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/nvMTNoAMiQ
— Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) April 1, 2026
An official cause of death has not been announced at this time.
Pugh was a former four-star recruit, but announced in December 2023 that he was walking away from the game. Pugh chose Wisconsin out of the dozens of offers he received, including Michigan, Penn State, Michigan State, Maryland, and Minnesota.
“My physical health was not near perfect, but my mental health was the reason I decided to hang it up. Over years of prolonged depression and substance abuse, I decided I deserved a better life and to finally find happiness,” he posted at the time, per the Milwaukee Journal Sentinel.” Pugh posted as he announced his medical retirement.
“In no way was football the root of these problems, but everything in my life had distracted me for so long to the point I didn’t want to be alive for years. I never had prioritized my mental health all along, digging a deeper darker hole. I want to thank the amazing Coaches, Teammates, Friends and Family @badgerfootball has provided me with over the years for helping me find a life I’m happy and proud of, and to finally create a relationship with God. I’ll never forget the memories. Love y’all.”
Our deepest condolences go out to Pugh’s family and friends during this incredibly difficult and tragic time.
Editors’ note: If you or someone you know is struggling or in crisis, help is available. Call or text 988 or chat 988lifeline.org.
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