Jack Pugh Dies at 25 After Stepping Away From Game Amid Mental Health Battle — The Young Star’s Passing Prompts Emotional Tributes From His Former Team, Highlighting Both His Talent on the Field and the Struggles He Faced Beyond It.
A FORMER college football star has died at 25.
Jack Pugh, who was a tight end at the University of Wisconsin-Madison, medically retired from the sport back in December 2023.
Former University of Wisconsin-Madison football player Jack Pugh, 25, has died
Pugh stepped away from the sport in 2023 as he struggled with his mental health
At the time, he chose to step away from the sport as a result of his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts.
His death was announced by his alma mater, which wrote, “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.
“Jack proudly earned his degree from UW-Madison in 2025 and will forever be remembered and loved.”
When he chose to retire from football, Pugh explained that he decided to focus on finding happiness.
He had made one appearance for the Badgers before stepping away, reports The Daily Mail.
“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.”
Pugh’s cause of death has not been confirmed.
