North Carolina football player Tylee Craft tragically passed away on Saturday morning after battling a rare form of lung cancer, as confirmed by coach Mack Brown. Craft, who was only 23 years old, had shown immense strength and resilience throughout his two and a half year fight against the disease.
The announcement of Craft's passing was made by Coach Brown during a postgame news conference following the Tar Heels' game against Georgia Tech. Despite the team's loss, Brown took a moment to honor Craft's courageous battle and positive spirit.
Craft was diagnosed with the rare form of lung cancer in March 2022, and the University of North Carolina had been supporting him throughout his journey. During Saturday's football game, which coincidentally was the team's annual Cancer Awareness Game, Craft was recognized and celebrated by friends and family members wearing shirts bearing his name and number.
Wide receiver J.J. Jones paid tribute to Craft by wearing his jersey with the No. 13 and last name during the game against Georgia Tech. Brown shared that he only learned of Craft's passing after the game, but had sensed something was amiss after an emotional interaction with Craft's mother during the first quarter.
UNC football announced Craft's death on social media, and a tribute video was released in his memory. The UNC men's basketball team also honored Craft by wearing shirts with his name and number during their intrasquad scrimmage at the Smith Center, holding a moment of silence in his honor.
Craft, a native of Sumter, South Carolina, had played in several games as a freshman in 2020 and in 2021 before his diagnosis. Despite his health challenges, Craft remained connected to the program and continued to inspire his teammates with his positivity and resilience.
The UNC football program expressed their deep gratitude for Craft's impact, stating that he will always be remembered for his unique personality and unwavering positivity. While Craft may no longer be physically present, his spirit and influence will continue to guide and inspire those who knew him.
UNC and the entire sports community mourn the loss of Tylee Craft and offer their condolences to his family, friends, teammates, and all those who were touched by his remarkable spirit.
