The news of former Wisconsin Badgers tight end Jack Pugh’s passing has saddened the football community. Pugh had stepped away from football three years ago, citing mental health concerns. At the moment, the details of his passing haven't been shared.

On Wednesday, in an X post, Wisconsin Football shared their condolences with Pugh’s family.

“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 teammates and staff. Jack proudly earned his degree from UW-Madison in 2025 and will forever be remembered and loved,” the statement read.

Pugh graduated from Hilliard Bradley High School near Columbus, Ohio. And as per ESPN, he has received offers from 13 programs, including Wisconsin.

He joined the Badgers in 2021 and played in one game against the Minnesota Golden Gophers in 2022. That game was his collegiate debut. In the same year, he was awarded the Academic All-Big Ten in recognition of academic excellence. In 2023, however, he chose to drop out of sports.

“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, I decided I deserved a better life and to finally find happiness,” he wrote on his social media, as per Milwaukee Journal Sentinel. 

His tragic passing has saddened many, and the football community came forth to offer its prayers.

“Way Too Young”: People Are Mourning the Loss of a Youngster

The news of Pugh’s sudden passing has upset many. Under the X post, people mourned the life he would never live and sent their well-wishes to Pugh’s family. 

“So very sad. Way too young,” one commented. At the time of his passing, Pugh was only 24. “This is so sad omg I can not believe this news he was so young and talented rest in peace,” another wrote. 

One X user wished the best for Pugh’s family in this difficult time.  “May Jack always RIP and may God carry his loved ones through this difficult time.” And some comments reminisced about his potential and their shared history with Pugh. 

“Heartbreaking news about Jack. We shared the same trainer in Columbus. Prayers to all his friends and family,” one replied read. 

One comment brought up that Pugh was a sought-after prospect.  “So sad to see this, I remember when he was a top recruit coming out of high school. Rest in peace Jack,” they commented. 

Our thoughts lie with Jack's family.

Written by

Akanksha Biradar

Edited by

Siddharth Shirwadkar