The cause of death for former Wisconsin football player Jack Pugh, who died on March 30 at the age of 24, has been determined as acute bronchopneumonia, according to the Franklin County Coroner’s Office. The infection, which causes severe inflammation in the airways, stemmed from an underlying heart condition known as cardiomyopathy.
Pugh, a tight end from Hilliard, Ohio, played for the Badgers from 2021 to 2023. He earned Academic All-Big Ten honors during his time with the team before stepping away due to a mental health issue. He announced his retirement in December 2023, citing years of depression and substance abuse, and stated his decision to prioritize his mental health and seek happiness.
"The Wisconsin athletics family is deeply saddened to hear of the passing of Jack Pugh," the Badgers said in a statement following the confirmation of his death on March 31. "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."
Pugh was listed at 6-foot-5 and 241 pounds. He played one game for Wisconsin as a freshman. He had also been a promising basketball player in high school before choosing to focus on football.