North Carolina wide receiver Tylee Craft left a lasting impact on his team and the college football community before his tragic passing from cancer in October. As the Tar Heels navigate their season, head coach Mack Brown has made it a priority to honor Craft’s memory in meaningful ways. One of the most touching gestures has come from EA Sports, which has included Craft in their latest video game update.
Honoring Tylee Craft continues for North Carolina
In the wake of Craft’s death, Brown has emphasized the importance of keeping Craft’s spirit alive within the program. He wants to ensure that the wide receiver’s legacy is not only remembered but celebrated. “We’re going to keep his locker,” Brown stated in October. “We’re going to keep his presence as much as we can and without being awkward.” This commitment reflects a broader goal: to maintain Craft’s influence among teammates and coaches alike.
As the Tar Heels prepared for a rivalry game against Virginia following a bye week, Brown shared his thought process. He explained how Craft’s presence would continue to be felt in meetings, locker rooms, and even during travel. “That’s where the jersey fits, I think,” he added, highlighting the emotional connection the team has with Craft.
EA Sports commemorates Craft
In a heartfelt tribute, Craft was added to the roster of College Football 25 in EA Sports’ recent update. Brown took to social media to express his gratitude, sharing a screenshot of the game featuring Craft wearing No. 13. “A big thank you to @EASPORTSCollege for adding Tylee Craft to the video game in their recent update,” Brown tweeted, accompanied by two prayer hand emojis and a heart. This gesture not only honors Craft but also provides a way for fans and former teammates to remember him in a fun and interactive way.
Craft’s last appearance on the field was in 2021, where he made four appearances, contributing not just as a wide receiver but also on special teams. Unfortunately, he was unable to play during the 2022 and 2023 seasons as he bravely battled lung cancer. His journey through this difficult time was marked by resilience and inspiration, earning him the Disney Spirit Award in 2022, which recognizes the most inspirational player or team in college football.
A legacy that lives on
The impact of Craft’s presence was felt not only by his teammates but also by the broader college football community. During the Tar Heels’ game against Virginia, North Carolina secured a decisive 41-14 victory. However, the significance of the game transcended the scoreboard. In a powerful show of solidarity, UVA honored Craft by wearing a special helmet sticker throughout the contest, underscoring the respect and admiration he garnered from rival teams.
As North Carolina fans and former teammates dive into EA Sports College Football 25, they now have the unique opportunity to play as Tylee Craft, keeping his spirit alive in the digital realm. This inclusion serves as a reminder of the joy he brought to the game and the lives he touched during his time with the Tar Heels.
The importance of community
Brown’s dedication to honoring Craft reflects a deeper understanding of what college football represents—a community that supports one another through thick and thin. Craft’s story is not just about his achievements on the field; it’s also about the bonds forged among teammates and the collective strength found in adversity. The Tar Heels are not just playing for wins; they are playing to honor a beloved teammate who fought valiantly against cancer.
As the season progresses, the North Carolina football program remains committed to keeping Craft’s memory alive. From locker tributes to video game inclusions, every gesture serves as a reminder of the legacy he left behind. How can we, as fans and members of the college football community, continue to support and uplift those who inspire us? By celebrating their lives and contributions, we ensure that their stories are never forgotten.
In a sport that often focuses on statistics and victories, Tylee Craft’s journey reminds us of the human element that makes college football so special. It’s about camaraderie, resilience, and the enduring spirit of those who play the game. As North Carolina moves forward, they do so with Craft’s memory etched in their hearts and minds, a testament to the power of love, support, and community in the face of life’s greatest challenges.
