Wisconsin TE Jack Pugh Dies at 24; Mental Health Advocate Who Left Football to Find Peace

Jack Pugh, a former Wisconsin tight end who stepped away from football three years ago to prioritize his mental health, has died at 24. The university announced his passing Tuesday night, though the cause of death was not disclosed.

Pugh, who was from Columbus, Ohio, redshirted in 2021 before appearing in one game during the 2022 season, earning academic All-Big Ten honors that year. But his time in a Wisconsin uniform became secondary to what he was battling internally. In December 2023, he announced via Instagram that he had decided to medically retire before that season, choosing his wellbeing over the game he once played.

The Decision That Changed His Life

"My physical health was not near perfect, but my mental health was the reason I decided to hang it up," Pugh wrote in that Instagram post. He was raw and honest about what led him there: years of prolonged depression and substance abuse that had dug what he called "a deeper darker hole."

What struck so many who read his words was his clarity. Pugh didn't blame football itself for his struggles, but he recognized that everything in his life had distracted him for so long that he'd never truly prioritized his mental health. He needed to stop, step back, and figure out who he was beyond the field.

Remembered as a Positive Force

Wisconsin Athletics released a statement saying the program was "deeply saddened" by his passing. "Jack was a positive light and brought a genuine spirit to our football program," the post read. "More than that, he cared about people and was loved by his teammates and staff."

The university also noted that Pugh proudly earned his degree from UW-Madison in 2025. In his final message to Badgers Nation, he thanked the coaches, teammates, friends and family Wisconsin football had given him, crediting them with helping him find a life he was happy and proud of and "finally create a relationship with God."

Jack Pugh's legacy extends far beyond statistics or game appearances. He showed that walking away takes courage, and that choosing yourself is sometimes the bravest play you can make.

This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.