The UNC football community is mourning the loss of one of its brightest stars. Tylee Craft has passed away after a courageous two-year battle with cancer. His untimely death has left a void in the hearts of his teammates, coaches, and fans.
University of North Carolina wide receiver Tylee Craft has tragically passed away at the age of 23. Craft lost his life following a battle with cancer, the school confirmed on Saturday, October 12.
Tylee Craft at Kenan Memorial Stadium on October 12, 2024, in Chapel Hill, North Carolina. | Source: Getty Images
The UNC football team paid tribute to Craft in a heartfelt statement on their official Instagram, acknowledging the deep impact he had on those around him.
“It is with love and fond memories that we announce Tylee Craft has begun his journey on the other side,” the post read. The tribute highlighted Craft’s unique presence, describing him as “1-of-1,” a player and person whose positive spirit will continue to shine even in his absence.
The UNC football program expressed deep gratitude for the support Craft received throughout his fight with cancer. “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,” the statement concluded, accompanied by the hashtag #TyleeStrongForever, a nod to Craft’s enduring legacy.
Craft’s health challenges began in March 2022, when he was diagnosed with a rare form of cancer. Despite the obstacles he faced, his resilience and positivity became a source of inspiration for his teammates and the broader UNC community.
