Wisconsin football mourns passing of former tight end Jack Pugh
Jack Pugh spent three seasons in the Wisconsin football program before retiring in Dec. 2023. UW athletics announced his death March 31.
MADISON – The Wisconsin football program is mourning the passing of Jack Pugh, a tight end who spent three years in the program. A four-star recruit coming out of high school, Pugh was a member of the Badgers ’ 2021 recruiting class. Pugh focused on basketball during his first two years at Hilliard Bradley High School near Columbus, Ohio, before joining the football team as a junior.
Despite the lack of experience, Pugh received nearly two dozen offers that included Michigan, Penn State, MIchigan State, Maryland and Minnesota. His last year with the Badgers was 2023, though he spent that season away from the program due to personal reasons. In December of '23 he announced his retirement due to health reasons.
Our thoughts are with Jack’s family during this difficult time. pic. twitter.
com/nvMTNoAMiQ — Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) April 1, 2026 Here is what he wrote on Instagram in announcing his depature from the game. "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.