Former Wisconsin TE Jack Pugh dies at 24; cause of death not given
ESPN • • sports
Key Points:
- Jack Pugh, a former Wisconsin football tight end who retired three years ago due to mental health struggles, has died at age 24, the university announced without disclosing the cause of death.
- Wisconsin Athletics expressed deep sadness, highlighting Pugh's positive spirit, caring nature, and the fact that he earned his degree from UW-Madison in 2025.
- Pugh, originally from Columbus, Ohio, redshirted in 2021 and played one game in 2022, earning academic All-Big Ten honors before medically retiring due to prolonged depression and substance abuse.
- In a 2023 Instagram post, Pugh emphasized that mental health—not football—was the reason for his retirement, and he credited his teammates, coaches, and faith for helping him find happiness.
