The official cause of death for former Wisconsin Badgers football player Jack Pugh has been determined four months after his passing at the age of 24. A report from the Franklin County Coroner’s Office revealed that Pugh died from acute bronchopneumonia, a severe inflammation of the lungs caused by a bacterial or viral infection. This lung infection was noted to have occurred as a complication of cardiomyopathy, a pre-existing heart condition. Additionally, officials reported that Pugh was also experiencing hepatosplenomegaly, characterized by an enlarged liver and spleen, at the time of his death on March 30.

A Promising Athlete’s Journey

Jack Pugh, a tight end from Hilliard, Ohio, was a valued member of the Wisconsin Badgers football team from 2021 to 2023. During his tenure, he demonstrated academic excellence, earning Academic All-Big Ten honors. However, Pugh made the difficult decision to step away from the sport in 2023, prioritizing his mental well-being.

The University of Wisconsin confirmed Pugh’s passing on March 31, a piece of news that sent ripples of sadness throughout the college football community. In a statement released at the time, the university expressed its deep sorrow:

“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.”

Prioritizing Mental Health

In December 2023, Pugh publicly announced his medical retirement from football, sharing a candid message on social media. He spoke openly about his struggles with depression and substance abuse, emphasizing that his decision was primarily driven by his mental health rather than physical limitations.

Pugh articulated his reasons for stepping away:

“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.”

He clarified that football was not the root cause of his challenges but acknowledged how life’s distractions had for years overshadowed his need to address his mental state, leading to a profound sense of despair.

“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.”

Concluding his statement, Pugh expressed gratitude to his coaches, teammates, and family for their support in helping him pursue a life he felt happy and proud of.

Tributes and Reflections

Following the news of his death, former Wisconsin teammate Braelon Allen, now a running back for the New York Jets, shared a poignant message on social media, urging others to “Protect your mental.” The outpouring of support and remembrance from teammates, coaches, and the wider athletic community underscored Pugh’s positive impact during his time with the Badgers.

The revelation of the specific causes of death—acute bronchopneumonia stemming from cardiomyopathy—provides a clearer understanding of the medical circumstances surrounding Pugh’s passing. His courageous openness about his mental health journey continues to resonate, highlighting the critical importance of mental well-being, especially for young athletes navigating demanding environments.