"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."
"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 never had prioritized my mental health all along, digging a deeper darker hole."
"I want to thank the amazing Coaches, Teammates, Friends and Family @badgerfootball has provided me with over the years for helping me find a life I'm happy and proud of, and to finally create a relationship with God."
Jack Pugh, a former tight end for Wisconsin's football team, has passed away at the age of 24. The university announced his death without providing details on the cause. Pugh had previously stepped away from football three years ago due to mental health concerns. He earned academic All-Big Ten honors and announced his medical retirement in December 2023, citing prolonged depression and substance abuse as factors in his decision. Pugh expressed gratitude for the support he received from coaches, teammates, and family during his journey.
Read at ESPN.com
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