Former Wisconsin Tight End Jack Pugh Dies at 24 After Stepping Away From Football

University confirms death of former Badgers player who previously retired citing mental health struggles; teammates and program remember him as a 'positive light'.

Apr. 2, 2026 at 3:51am

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The University of Wisconsin has confirmed the death of former football player Jack Pugh at the age of 24. Pugh had previously stepped away from the team in 2023 to focus on his mental health, citing ongoing struggles with depression and substance abuse. In a statement, the university praised Pugh's character and the positive impact he had on his teammates and the program.

Why it matters

Pugh's story highlights the ongoing challenges that student-athletes can face with mental health, and the importance of prioritizing well-being alongside athletic performance. His decision to be open about his struggles and step away from the game serves as a reminder of the need for greater mental health support and resources for young people in high-pressure environments.

The details

Jack Pugh was a tight end who joined the Wisconsin Badgers football team in 2021 after a successful high school career. He appeared in limited action for the Badgers in 2022 and earned academic All-Big Ten recognition. In 2023, Pugh announced he was retiring from football to focus on his mental health, describing years of depression and substance abuse that had taken a toll on his well-being. The university has now confirmed Pugh's passing, though details surrounding the circumstances have not been released.

  • Pugh joined the Wisconsin Badgers football team in 2021.
  • He appeared in limited action and earned academic All-Big Ten recognition in 2022.
  • Pugh stepped away from the team in 2023 to focus on his mental health.
  • Pugh passed away on March 31, 2026 at the age of 24.

The players

Jack Pugh

A former tight end for the University of Wisconsin Badgers football team who passed away at the age of 24 after stepping away from the sport in 2023 to focus on his mental health.

Braelon Allen

A former teammate of Pugh's at Wisconsin who currently plays for the New York Jets.

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What they’re saying

“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. More than that, he cared about people and was loved by his teammates and staff.”

— University of Wisconsin Football Team, Official Account

“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.”

— Jack Pugh

The takeaway

Pugh's tragic passing at just 24 years old underscores the importance of addressing mental health challenges, especially among young student-athletes facing immense pressure and expectations. His openness about his struggles serves as a powerful reminder that more support and resources are needed to help protect the well-being of all young people, both on and off the field.