A Nebraska Cornhuskers fan who captured hearts with a touchdown run during the 2013 spring game and earned an ESPY for Best Moment in Sports has died at 19.
Jack Hoffman, the Nebraska Cornhuskers fan who inspired millions with his courage and determination, has passed away at the age of 19 after a long battle with brain cancer. The Team Jack Foundation, founded by his family to support pediatric brain cancer research, confirmed the news in a heartfelt statement on its official X account.
Diagnosed with a brain tumor at the age of five after a life-threatening seizure, Jack faced multiple surgeries, intensive treatments, and ongoing complications like epilepsy.
In 2011, Jack’s family reached out to the University of Nebraska, hoping he could meet his favorite player, Rex Burkhead, before a critical brain surgery. Burkhead and the Huskers welcomed him warmly, creating a bond that later brought national attention to pediatric brain cancer.
Rex Burkhead sits with his Nebraska Cornhuskers teammates at Memorial Stadium in Lincoln, Nebraska, on September 22, 2012 | Source: Getty Images
Two years later, during the 2013 Nebraska spring game, Jack’s courage and love for the Huskers were showcased when he ran 69 yards for a touchdown after taking a handoff from quarterback Taylor Martinez.
The moment, celebrated by fans and players alike as “The Run,” earned him an ESPY Award for Best Moment in Sports and raised significant awareness about childhood brain cancer.
Jack Hoffman onstage with his trophy at the 2013 ESPY Awards on July 17, 2013 | Source: Getty Images
Beyond this iconic moment, Jack and his family turned their focus to advocacy. The Team Jack Foundation, founded to fund research for pediatric brain cancer, has raised millions of dollars, reflecting the Hoffmans’ determination to make a difference.
Jack lived his life with gratitude and resilience, graduating from West Holt High School in May 2024 and pursuing pre-law studies at the University of Nebraska-Kearney, all while continuing his cancer treatments.
Even as his tumor grew aggressively, Jack remained a beacon of hope and strength, inspiring countless individuals and highlighting the urgent need for a cure.
Following the announcement of Jack’s death on social media, the Nebraska Huskers shared their condolences on X, honoring his impact on the Huskers and the community.
“We are heartbroken by his loss and send all our love to the Hoffman family,” the Nebraska Huskers statement read.
