Jack Hoffman, the young Nebraska football superfan who captured hearts with his unforgettable 69-yard touchdown at the Cornhuskers’ 2013 spring game, has passed away at the age of 19. Jack Hoffman’s death follows a 14-year battle with brain cancer, a condition he fought with unwavering courage and determination.
Here’s what we know about Jack Hoffman’s life, legacy, and the impact of his death.
Jack Hoffman passes away at 19, claims report
Jack Hoffman, a Nebraska Cornhusker superfan and cancer patient who inspired many, passed away on January 15, 2025. He was 19 and had battled brain cancer for most of his life.
Diagnosed with a glioma at age 5, Jack gained national attention after scoring a 69-yard touchdown during Nebraska’s 2013 spring game (via ESPN). His inspiring moment helped launch the Team Jack Foundation, which raised over $14 million for pediatric brain cancer research.
Jack developed a close bond with Nebraska running back Rex Burkhead, who introduced him to the Cornhuskers. The viral touchdown earned Jack an ESPY Award for “Best Moment in Sports” and led to a meeting with President Barack Obama. Jack continued to defy the odds, playing high school football and graduating from high school in May 2024. He enrolled in the University of Nebraska at Kearney as a pre-law student, earning a spot on the dean’s list.
Jack’s father, Andy Hoffman, who also played a pivotal role in raising awareness for pediatric brain cancer through the foundation, passed away in 2021 from glioblastoma. Jack underwent multiple treatments throughout his life, including radiation and tumor resection surgery in 2024. Despite his declining health, he continued to inspire those around him.
The University of Nebraska and the community honored Jack’s courage and efforts to raise cancer awareness. His touchdown, called “The Run,” inspired many. His legacy lives on through the Team Jack Foundation. Jack Hoffman is remembered as a symbol of resilience and advocacy in the fight against pediatric brain cancer.
