Texas high school football coach Jacob Johnson dies at 45 after leukemia battle

Jacob Johnson, the head football coach and athletic director at Millsap High School in Millsap, Texas, died Oct. 23 after a three-year battle with leukemia. He was just 45 years old.

Johnson’s death came weeks after his leukemia relapsed, forcing him to step away from the sidelines for additional treatment. He had shown signs of improvement earlier in the year, entering remission during the summer before the cancer returned in September. The news was first reported by the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

“It is with genuine and deep sadness that we share the news that our colleague, coach and friend, Coach Jake Johnson, passed away earlier this morning,” Millsap Independent School District said in a statement.

Johnson joined Millsap in 2015 and became a central figure in the school’s football program and the surrounding community. He put an emphasis on football being more than just a game in an interview with the Fort Worth Star-Telegram.

Missing you a ton coach! You’re in a better place now and you’re watching over us and keeping me and the Brotherhood safe. I love you more than anything and you have made a big impact in my life and you always kept believing in me no matter what. I love you coach Johnson forever pic.twitter.com/zYJ1UOkbRF

— Carter “Spida”Webb🕸️ (@carter_webb9) October 23, 2026

“Football is a ministry to me. One hundred percent a ministry,” Johnson said. “I don't care who you are. If you're going to step into our program, you're going to be treated the same way.”

Johnson had hoped to continue coaching remotely from the hospital while receiving treatment, but his battle with leukemia ultimately kept him away from the team.

Despite the loss of their coach, the Bulldogs took the field Friday against Eastland at the request of Johnson’s family. Millsap won the game 63-0. The Bulldogs entered the matchup with a 6-1 overall record and an undefeated mark in district play, continuing what had been a promising season under Johnson’s leadership.

63-0 coaches son @Braun_Ironside had 6tds tonight playing in honor of his Dad pic.twitter.com/je0FyCFQrD

— Coach LB Viking (@CoaLBViking) October 24, 2026

One of his two sons, Braun Johnson, has been outstanding this season, entering Friday's game just 185 yards away from 2,000 rushing yards. In the 63-0 win, Braun added six more rushing scores to his total, bringing him to 39 touchdowns on the season.

Several North Texas football programs also paid tribute to Johnson following his death, reflecting the impact he had made throughout his coaching career.

Johnson is survived by his wife, Cassie, and their two children.

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This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Texas high school football coach Jacob Johnson dies at 45 after leukemia battle