A tragic incident has struck the college football community. Alabama A&M linebacker, Medrick Burnett Jr., passed away on Wednesday at UAB Hospital after succumbing to injuries sustained during a game last month. The redshirt freshman from California was injured in a head-on collision during the Magic City Classic against Alabama State University.
Burnett Jr.’s sister, Dominece James, organized a GoFundMe page to help cover medical expenses, detailing the severity of his injuries. He suffered multiple brain bleeds and swelling, requiring a craniotomy as a last resort to save his life.
The Jefferson County Coroner, Matt Angelo, confirmed the 20-year-old’s passing on Wednesday at 5:43 p.m. Burnett Jr. had played in seven games this season for the Bulldogs after transferring from Grambling State. His promising football career was cut short by this devastating injury.
Alabama A&M had initially released a statement confirming Burnett Jr.’s death earlier on Wednesday, but later retracted it after the family clarified he was still on life support. Following his passing, the university released a new statement mourning the loss.
Alabama A&M Director of Athletics, Dr. Paul A. Bryant, described Burnett Jr. as a remarkable young man with positive energy, leadership, and compassion. He acknowledged the strength and resilience of Burnett Jr.’s family during this incredibly difficult time. The tragic loss of this young athlete serves as a stark reminder of the inherent risks in football.
