Former Wisconsin Badgers tight end Jack Pugh has died, the school has announced.
Pugh, who played as a tight end, chose to medically retire from the sport in December 2023 due to depression and suicidal thoughts.
The school announced his death in a statement on Tuesday evening but no cause was given.
‘The Wisconsin Athletics family is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Pugh,’ the school said.
‘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.
‘Jack proudly earned his degree from UW-Madison in 2025 and will forever be remembered and loved.’
The Wisconsin Badgers have announced the death of their former tight end, Jack Pugh
When Pugh announced he was stepping away from the game in late 2023, he insisted football had not contributed to struggling with his mental health.
‘My physical health was not near perfect, but my mental health was the reason I decided to hang it up,’ he said at the time in a social media statement.
‘Over years of prolonged depression and substance abuse, I decided I deserved a better life and to finally find happiness.
‘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.’
As a young athlete, Pugh had forged a reputation as a promising basketball player in high school before eventually opting to play football.
‘I just kind of got worn out and tired of basketball,’ he told The Athletic in 2021. ‘That was my life and I realized that I needed to find something that I’d enjoy more.
‘Football had always been on my mind. I went out there looking to have a good time. I ended up having a great time and falling in love with it.’
He only made one appearance for the Badgers before stepping away from football.
If you or someone you know needs help, please call or text the confidential 24/7 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline in the US on 988. There is also an online chat available at 988lifeline.org.
