UNC Football Player Tyler Craft Dead at 23

The University of North Carolina (UNC) wide receiver Tylee Craft has passed away after battling an aggressive form of lung cancer, leaving the program and the wider community grieving his loss.

Craft was diagnosed with Stage 4 large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma in March 2022 after he began experiencing severe back pain.

Craft had previously been a healthy player, showing promise on the field, contributing to both offense and special teams, and appearing in four games.

At the time of his diagnosis, he was told he only had weeks to live but managed to live over two years.

Craft’s bravery enabled him to remain connected to the team, continue attending meetings, and earn widespread recognition.

In 2022, he was honored with the Disney Spirit Award and named to the Uplifting Athletes Rare Disease Champion Team.

Despite his health challenges, he continued his education, earning a bachelor’s degree in exercise and sports science/sports administration in May.

UNC head coach Mack Brown said Craft had a profound on the program, stating:

“This young man fought so hard for his two and a half years. The doctors told us he outlived what he should’ve.”

“And he did it with the spirit, he did it with a smile on his face, he didn’t miss a meeting, he didn’t miss practice, he coached these other incredible young people.”

UNC wide receiver J.J. Jones wore Craft’s No. 13 jersey in remembrance of Craft, while the team planned to honor them in a game designated as their annual Cancer Awareness Game.

The UNC football program released a statement:

“Tylee meant so much to so many and affected us in ways we’ll always be thankful for.

He was 1-of-1 and, while he won’t be with us in body, he’ll be watching over us with his endearing smile and endless positivity.”

The UNC men’s basketball team also paid tribute to the player, observing a moment of silence in his honor.

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