Young Football Fan Known for Inspiring Touchdown Dies at 19
Jack Hoffman, an aspiring attorney at the University of Nebraska at Kearny, has died at the age of 19. His death comes more than a decade after Hoffman, a longtime cancer patient, inspired millions of college football fans in 2013 with an unforgettable touchdown during a game.
The Team Jack Foundation, which bears his name, shared the news of his passing in a statement. "Jack passed away after a long and hard-fought battle with brain cancer, a journey that inspired countless lives and left a legacy of hope, strength, and resilience," the organization shared.
At the end of the Nebraska Cornhuskers' spring football game in 2013, the team brought Hoffman, who was diagnosed with brain cancer at age 5, out on the field in full player uniform to give him a chance at the spotlight. Quarterback Taylor Martinez handed the ball to the then-7-year-old and directed him to run 69 yards downfield for a touchdown. The team—and the stadium—erupted in celebration when he made it to the end zone.
"Through his battle, Jack touched lives far and wide. From his unforgettable 69-yard touchdown run during the Nebraska Spring Game that captivated the hearts of millions to the countless families who found solace and support through the work of the Team Jack Foundation, his impact will echo for generations," Team Jack said. "Jack may no longer be with us in person, but his legacy lives on in the work of the Team Jack Foundation, in the lives of the children and families we've helped, and in the hope he gave to so many."
The University of Nebraska similarly mourned his passing. "Jack Hoffman embodied what it means to be a Husker every day through his courage, fight, and inspiration. We are heartbroken by his loss and send all our love to the Hoffman family," the Huskers wrote on social media. Another clip of his legendary time on the field honored him as "Small in stature, but not in heart."
Jack Hoffman embodied what it means to be a Husker every day through his courage, fight, and inspiration.
— Nebraska Huskers (@Huskers) January 15, 2025
We are heartbroken by his loss and send all our love to the Hoffman family. pic.twitter.com/dBbmwPEEBC
Hoffman's passing follows the death of his father Andy Hoffman, who also died of brain cancer in 2021.