Heartbreaking news broke in the football world today. Former Wisconsin player and current South Dakota football player Nate White passed away suddenly. Love poured in throughout social media for the former Badger running back. One of those heartfelt messages came from head coach Luke Fickell, who recruited him to play at Wisconsin in 2023.
Our thoughts are with Nate’s family and team during this difficult time. pic.twitter.com/RSiOqfrCUk
— Wisconsin Football (@BadgerFootball) June 25, 2025
Football community mourns and honors the life and legacy of the young running back
Nate White came to the Badgers in 2023 as a 4-star recruit out of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. He redshirted his freshman year, waiting for his chance to be part of the running back stable. In 2024, he moved to wide receiver but was still unable to break into the starting lineup, so he decided to seek playing time at South Dakota State. He had yet to play for the Jackrabbits.
"News of Nate White's tragic passing has been sad and difficult to comprehend for all of the Wisconsin Badger football family. We remember Nate as a friend and teammate, and we stand in support of Nate's family and loved ones."Luke Fickell
White was set to play running back again for the Jackrabbits, and while they had yet to see him play a down, they were still very shaken by his death. They made a memorial in his locker and also sent out very touching messages from President Barry Dunn and head football coach Dan Jackson.
A little memorial has been set up in his locker at South Dakota State. RIP Nate White https://t.co/zsSya2BDPF pic.twitter.com/bNSO9YyouS
— Easton Butler (@Easton__Butler) June 25, 2025
""Jackrabbit football is a brotherhood and today we are all hurting with the shocking news of the loss of Nate White. Nate impacted our program with his hard work, determination and overall positive spirit. We grieve with his family and will honor his memory throughout the upcoming season.""Dan Jackson, SDSU Head Coach
You’ll be missed by so many. Rest in peace 💔🙏🏾 https://t.co/U4UE1SW6mK
— Braelon Allen (@BraelonAllen) June 26, 2025
This is hard news to process for a player and a person who is so young with a ton of life in front of them—not just in football but in life. Keep the family and friends of Nate White in your thoughts and prayers as they process this next season without their loved one. This is absolutely tragic, and there's no other way to put it.