Jack Hoffman, the Nebraska superfan who captured the nation's heart with a viral touchdown, dies of cancer at age 19


Jack Hoffman, a fan of the University of Nebraska Cornhuskers football team who touched the hearts of millions after running to score a touchdown in the team's spring game in 2013, has died at the age of 19 after a battle of several years against brain cancer.

The executive director of the 'Team Jack Foundation' said he died after his battle Wednesday at his home in Atkinson, Nebraska. Medical tests in October found that new, more aggressive brain tumors had developed in his body.

Hoffman was initially diagnosed with brain cancer in 2011, which led to the creation of the foundation that supports pediatric brain cancer research.

Jack's father, Andy Hoffman, was diagnosed with brain cancer in 2020 and died in 2021 at the age of 42.

Jack's passion for the Cornhuskers football team led to a friendship with then-Huskers running back and future Super Bowl champion Rex Burkhead.

That led to Hoffman being invited to the team's spring game in Lincoln in 2013. The coaching staff invited him to call a play in the fourth quarter. Jack received a pass from then-quarterback Taylor Martinez and walked 69 yards down the field to the end zone.

Jack Hoffman, who was diagnosed with pediatric brain cancer in 2011, died at the age of 19.

Jack Hoffman, who was diagnosed with pediatric brain cancer in 2011, died at the age of 19.

Hoffman received worldwide fame for his run during Nebraska's 2013 spring football game.

Hoffman received worldwide fame for his run during Nebraska's 2013 spring football game.

Hoffman's career led to players from both sides coming onto the field, mobbing him and lifting him into the air as thousands of people in the stands at Memorial Stadium applauded him.

The post made national headlines for days and views of the video soared into the millions (currently at 8.9 million at the time of publication).

Hoffman, Burkhead and their family later visited President Barack Obama in the Oval Office weeks after the race took place.

That year, Hoffman also won the 2013 ESPY Award for “Best Sports Moment.”

According to the Associated Press, Jack played on the line for the Atkinson High School football team. He then went on to the University of Nebraska at Kearney to study pre-law.

According to ESPN, Hoffman was initially diagnosed with a cancerous glioma (tumor) in 2011 at the age of five. Doctors told the Hoffmans that most of the growth could not be removed.

After Hoffman's father researched ways to treat the growth, he found a doctor in Boston who removed more than 90 percent of the tumor.

Hoffman became friends with Burkhead, who used Jack's fight as an example to cheer on the Cornhuskers in a late 2011 game against Ohio State. Nebraska then won the game, with Burkhead scoring the game-winning touchdown.

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By Kevin Rogers

Kevin is a seasoned sports journalist with 15 years of experience covering major leagues, including the NFL, NBA, and MLB. His dynamic commentary and expert game analysis connect with fans across all sports, ensuring reliable and engaging coverage. Phone: +1 (212) 574-9823

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