Former Wisconsin Football Player Jack Pugh After A Battle With Mental Illness
In 2026, he earned Academic All-Big Ten honors and appeared in one game, making his collegiate debut against Minnesota.
AthleteAdrian ColeApril 1, 2026
This article was last updated by Adrian Cole on April 1, 2026
The sources confirmed that Jack Pugh, a football player at Hilliard Bradley High School, has passed away.
Jack Pugh was a tight end for the Wisconsin Badgers football program, competing in the Big Ten Conference.
He was from Columbus, Ohio, and attended Hilliard Bradley High School, where he developed into a highly regarded recruit.
Standing 6-foot-5 and weighing 257 pounds, he brought size and versatility to the tight end position.
Pugh was rated a four-star recruit by ESPN and a three-star prospect by 247Sports and Rivals.
He joined Wisconsin in 2026 and redshirted his freshman season, using the year to develop within the program.
In 2026, he earned Academic All-Big Ten honors and appeared in one game, making his collegiate debut against Minnesota.
He was majoring in Personal Finance and was balancing academics with football.
Wisconsin Football Player Jack Pugh Following Mental Health Battle
Several sources confirmed that the former football player Jack Pugh passed away on March 29, 2026, at the age of 25, after a battle with mental health problems.
He medically retired from the sport back in December 2026. He chose to step away from the sport as a result of his battle with depression and suicidal thoughts.
When Pugh chose to retire from the sport, he explained that he decided to focus on finding happiness.
He made one appearance for the Badgers before stepping away.
Kenna Lyn McClelland took to her official Facebook handle to announce the tragic news. She wrote,
There’s not enough words that will be enough. My cousin is gone doesn’t even sound right to me , Jack was my brother. My speedy freeze bestie, my ride to school that made me 20 minutes late everyday , my go-to euchre partner , and so much more but most of all my best friend. We had a bond that was out of this world . He was the guy that walked into a room and said hello to everyone , he didn’t have a mean bone in his body . He was polite and kind with the best heart. The goofiest goof ball of all time , it was impossible to be unhappy around him because he would find a way to turn your day around and make you laugh. I don’t know if I’ve endured such pain in my entire life , this one hurts so bad . I love you so much Jackie . This family will never be the same without you and I will miss you every single day . Say hi to Nona for me bub
Kenna Lynn McClellandIn the comment section, Camey Mohler, who studied at Maysville, wrote,
My heart breaks for you and your whole family Ken. I love you and I’m here when you need someone to lean on
Camey MohlerCasey Gibson, a multi-skilled technician, wrote,
So sorry for your loss🫶🏼 sending many prayers of comfort over you and your family ❤️
Casey GibsonWisconsin Football also took to its official Facebook page and sent prayers to Jack’s family.
Our thoughts are with Jack’s family during this difficult time.
Wisconsin FootballRodney Rollison, a graduate of Tri-Valley High School, wrote,
These are my grandbabies as you can see they get they get their goofiness from Pappy. I’m too heartbroken for all of them right now that this is a time and need that sadness has hit my family. I will always stand behind them with my heart more than 100% as I speak in real tears, I love you and miss you, Jack
Rodney RollisonOther close ones and relatives have also offered their heartfelt condolences and sent prayers to Jack’s family to stay strong in this difficult time.
The funeral service schedule has not been scheduled by his family.
Rest in Heaven, Jack Pugh.
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Adrian ColeIndependent news writer reporting on emerging stories, public interest events, and trending headlines with a focus on clarity, speed, and accuracy.
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