It was unfortunately confirmed on Tuesday night that former Wisconsin tight end Jack Pugh has died. He was only 24 years old.
The cause of Pugh's death has not been announced at this time. The former four-star recruit made second-team All-Central District at Hilliard Bradley before joining Wisconsin's football program in 2021.
Pugh, who earned Academic All-Big Ten honors in 2022, retired in the winter of 2023 due to mental health concerns.
"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," Pugh wrote on social media. "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."
On Tuesday night, Wisconsin issued a statement on Pugh's death.
"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 school said. "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."
© Jeff Hanisch-Imagn Images.
Fans heartbroken over this news.
Countless fans have offered their condolences to Pugh's friends and family members this Wednesday.
"This absolutely breaks my heart! Jack worked for me for a short period of time before moving back to Ohio," one person wrote on social media. "He was was of the kindest people I've had the opportunity to meet. Prayers to his family, who I know he loved dearly! May he rest in peace."
"Oh my goodness! My condolences and sympathies to his family and friends," a second person said.
"I can’t imagine the heartbreak for his family. Praying for his family as they grieve the loss of their son," another person wrote on Facebook.
Our thoughts are with the Pugh family.
May he rest in peace.
