Sadly: UNC football top star announced his retirement from the game.
The former wide receiver has committed to the football team in a new capacity.
Tylee Craft, a graduate student at UNC, has been battling stage four large cell neuroendocrine carcinoma for the past two years, which has caused him to miss games. Craft, who is still fighting, declared via X yesterday that he will be quitting from football and turning into a student coach.
Hello, Tar Heels
Firstly, I would want to express my gratitude to everyone for their love and support while I fight cancer. I have chosen to temporarily step down medically and take on the role of student coach. However, the objective stays the same. I’m going to beat this beast with continued swinging. I’ll then get back into playing shape after I’m well enough to go back to the field. Thank you once more for your love and support. It has immense meaning.
#TyleeStrong
Forward heels!
Tylee
Throughout his freshman and sophomore seasons with the Tar Heels, Craft made 11 total appearances in games. After receiving a cancer diagnosis in 2022, he had to miss time from the team until the present. In his battle against cancer, players and supporters have come together in support of Craft, who was named to the Uplifting Athletes Rare Disease Champion Team during his junior year.
In addition to fighting cancer, Craft has continued to play a significant role in Carolina football. Even since receiving his diagnosis, he has continued to attend practices, meetings, and games. In addition, he has occasionally worked out with the squad, proving his dedication to the Tar Heels in spite of his illness. Craft has always been an example to everyone around him, and in his new position as student coach, he will only serve to motivate his peers even more.
