UNC football helmet (Photo via Getty Images)
On Saturday, North Carlina announced that wide receiver Tylee Craft tragically passed away after a long battle with a rare form of lung cancer that was originally diagnosed in March of 2022.
It is with love and fond memories that we announce Tylee Craft has begun his journey on the other side,” UNC wrote on social media.
“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. “
“On behalf of his family and our program, we sincerely thank everyone who supported Tylee during his battle with cancer. It means more than you know.”
It is with love and fond memories that we announce Tylee Craft has begun his journey on the other side.
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… pic.twitter.com/UutVS5QSKk
— Carolina Football (@UNCFootball) October 12, 2024
His teammate and fellow wide receiver J.J. Jones wore No. 13, which belonged to Craft, in the Tar Heels game against Georgie Tech.
While wearing the jersey, he scored a touchdown in the first half, which made for a touching and thoughtful moment.
The game was also dedicated to Craft as it was UNC’s cancer awareness game.
Tylee Craft Was Truly A Great Athlete
The sad news means it is now time to honor Craft and the many accomplishments he made in his life on and off the field.
Coming out of high school, he was the 60th-ranked wide receiver in the nation, according to ESPN, and he had a bright future ahead of him.
He appeared in 11 games between his freshman and sophomore seasons but would unfortunately miss all of 2022 and 2023 because of his battle.
In 2022, he was named the Disney Spiti Award winner and named to the Uplifting Rare Disease Champion Team.
