Sometimes the bravest thing a person can do is walk away. Jack Pugh did exactly that — and the world loved him for it. Now, far too soon, he is gone.
Jack Pugh, a former tight end on the University of Wisconsin’s football team who stepped away from the sport three years ago citing mental health concerns, has died. He was 24. No cause of death has been released.
A Star Who Could Have Had It All
Pugh was a four-star recruit and one of the most coveted prospects in Wisconsin’s 2021 signing class, ranked as the 11th-best player at his position in the country. He turned down offers from Michigan, Penn State, Indiana, Iowa State and others to join the Badgers — a program he had dreamed about since childhood.
Despite only picking up football in the final two years of high school, Pugh earned Academic All-Big Ten honors and showed enormous promise on the field.
The Moment He Put Himself First
In December 2023, Pugh made a decision that took real courage. He walked away from football — not because he couldn’t play, but because he needed to live.
In his own words on Instagram, Pugh wrote: “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. 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.”
He ended his post with love — for his coaches, his teammates, and the life he was finally choosing for himself. “I want to thank the amazing coaches, teammates, friends and family that @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.”
He Finished What He Started
Despite stepping away from football, Pugh proudly earned his degree from UW-Madison in 2025 — proof that he was building something real beyond the game.
A Community in Grief
Wisconsin Athletics released a heartfelt statement: “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.”
“This absolutely breaks my heart,” one person wrote online. “He was one of the kindest people I’ve had the opportunity to meet. Prayers to his family, who I know he loved dearly.”
Rest Easy, Jack
Jack Pugh chose his mental health when it would have been easier to stay silent. He spoke his truth publicly so others wouldn’t feel alone. That kind of courage doesn’t fade — it lives on.
Rest easy, Jack. You deserved every bit of happiness you were chasing. 🕊️
If you or someone you know is struggling, please call or text 988 to reach the Suicide and Crisis Lifeline. Help is available 24/7.
