North Carolina Football Player Tylee Craft Passes Away at 23 After Cancer Fight
CHAPEL HILL, N.C. — Tylee Craft, a player for UNC football, tragically passed away Saturday morning after a long battle with cancer, as announced by head coach Mack Brown following the Tar Heels’ game against Georgia Tech that afternoon.
At just 23 years old, Craft’s loss was formally recognized in a post on the UNC football social media at 4:03 p.m. on Saturday.
“It is with love and fond memories that we announce Tylee Craft has begun his journey on the other side. Tylee held immense meaning for many and touched our lives in ways we will always cherish,” stated UNC football.
“He was truly unique, and although he won’t be with us physically, his warm smile and boundless positivity will continue to guide us. We thank everyone who stood by Tylee during his fight with cancer — your support has meant more than you can imagine. With love and affection, #TyleeStrongForever.”
The spirit of support for Craft quickly spread within UNC, inspiring the #TyleeStrong movement. Craft received a diagnosis of a rare lung cancer in March 2022.
In 2022, Craft was recognized as one of five college athletes selected for the Uplifting Athletes Rare Disease Champion Team and was awarded the Disney Spirit Award at ESPN’s College Football Awards.
During the game against Georgia Tech, UNC wide receiver J.J. Jones wore Craft’s No. 13 jersey and scored a touchdown in the first half. Additionally, players and coaches from the football and basketball teams expressed solidarity by donning t-shirts in honor of Craft before the Blue-White scrimmage.
“This remarkable young man fought valiantly for two and a half years, surpassing the doctors’ expectations,” Brown remarked following the game against Georgia Tech.
“He faced this challenge with spirit and consistently wore a smile. He didn’t miss any meetings or practices; he even coached younger players. Tylee was truly exceptional.”
