The football community is mourning the loss of Kasey Redfern, 35, of Lexington, Kentucky, a former NFL punter and Wofford College standout who died on Tuesday, October 13, 2026, following a three-year battle with cancer. His passing has left his family, friends, former teammates, coaches, and fans grieving the loss of a beloved husband, father, and athlete.
Redfern was diagnosed in 2023 with a cancerous brain tumor and central nervous system lymphoma. He underwent extensive treatment over the following years, facing a difficult medical journey that ultimately led his family to make the transition to hospice care on September 26, 2026, his 35th birthday. His death was reported by multiple news outlets on October 15.
Early Life and Dream of Playing Professional Football
A native of Jamestown, North Carolina, Kasey grew up in Virginia Beach, Virginia, and Wilmore, Kentucky. From an early age, he developed a passion for football and pursued opportunities to turn that interest into a career.
He attended Ragsdale High School before playing college football at Wofford College from 2010 to 2013. During his time with the Wofford Terriers, he served as both a kicker and punter, developing the skills that would eventually lead him to professional football.
His college career became an important foundation for the next chapter of his life, opening the door to an opportunity to compete in the National Football League.
Kasey Redfern’s NFL Career
Redfern entered the NFL in 2014 after signing with the Jacksonville Jaguars as an undrafted free agent. Over the next several years, he spent time with seven NFL organizations: the Jaguars, San Diego Chargers, Carolina Panthers, Cleveland Browns, Detroit Lions, Dallas Cowboys, and Atlanta Falcons.
He made his NFL debut with the Detroit Lions in 2017, appearing in one game and recording a 50-yard punt. In 2019, he joined the Atlanta Falcons and later appeared in a regular-season game for the team.
Although his professional playing career was brief, his journey reflected the persistence required to compete at the highest level of American football.
A Courageous Battle With Cancer
In 2023, Redfern was diagnosed with a cancerous brain tumor and central nervous system lymphoma. He underwent chemotherapy and other medical treatments over the next three years.
His wife, Lauryl, shared updates about his condition during his illness. On September 26, 2026, she announced that the family had transitioned him to hospice care following a significant decline in his health.
The announcement came on his birthday, making the moment especially difficult for his loved ones. Despite the challenges of his illness, Redfern remained surrounded by family and friends as they faced the uncertainty of the final stage of his journey.
Tributes From Friends and the Football Community
News of Redfern’s death prompted tributes from people who knew him through football and personal relationships.
Former NFL player Rob Greene, who became a coach at Texas Tech, remembered Redfern as a “great man, husband, father, and friend.” The tribute reflected the affection and respect he inspired beyond the field.
For many who knew him, Kasey’s legacy extends beyond statistics and professional appearances. He will also be remembered through the relationships he built, the experiences he shared, and the memories held by those who were part of his life.
Remembering Kasey Redfern
Kasey Redfern is survived by his wife, Lauryl, and their two children, Ollie and Logan. His death leaves his family facing a profound loss and a future without a husband and father whose presence was deeply valued.
At 35, his life ended after years of fighting a devastating illness. His story is also one of dedication to football, perseverance through difficult circumstances, and the lasting bonds he shared with the people closest to him.
As family members, friends, former teammates, and fans remember Kasey, their tributes reflect a life that meant far more than his career in professional sports.
May Kasey Redfern be remembered with love and respect, and may his wife, children, family, friends, and everyone who mourns him find comfort and strength in the memories they will always carry.
