Medrick Burnett Jr., a college football player at Alabama A&M University, died this week after suffering a head injury in a recent game.
Who Is Medrick Burnett Jr.?
Burnett, a 20-year-old linebacker for Alabama A&M University, suffered a head injury on October 26 during the Magic City Classic against Alabama State University, the school announced. Burnett was hospitalized following the game and passed away Tuesday night. The university has not disclosed an official cause of death.
A native of Lakewood, California, Medrick Burnett Jr. transferred to Alabama A&M in 2024 after spending one season with Grambling State University's football program. During the 2024 season, he played in seven games, including a standout performance against Austin Peay State University, where he recorded a season-high three tackles.
Alabama A&M University Announcement
"Alabama A&M University is mourning the passing of football student-athlete Medrick Burnett Jr.," the school said in a statement on Wednesday.
Alabama A&M Director of Athletics Dr. Paul A. Bryant expressed sympathy for Burnett's family, saying: "Medrick was more than an exceptional athlete; he was a remarkable young man whose positive energy, leadership, and compassion left an indelible mark on everyone who knew him. While words cannot adequately express our grief, we are humbled by the strength of his family, who stood by his side throughout this unimaginable ordeal."
Bryant added in the statement, "We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to Medrick's parents, siblings, and loved ones. We also offer our heartfelt support to his teammates, coaches, and the entire Alabama A&M community who are mourning this loss. In this moment of sorrow, we come together to honor Medrick's legacy and celebrate the light he brought to our lives. May we all draw strength from one another as we navigate this difficult time."
Burnett's family created a GoFundMe page prior to his death, saying at the time that he was in the "ICU and not doing well."
"He had several brain bleeds and swelling of the brain. He had to have a tube to drain to relieve the pressure, and after 2 days of severe pressure, we had to opt for a craniotomy, which was the last resort to help try to save his life," the GoFundMe page said.
Responses to Burnett's Passing
In a post on X, formerly Twitter, Grambling State Athletics said, "Grambling State Athletics offers our sincerest condolences and prayers to the friends and family of former G-Man and @_AAMUAthletics football student-athlete Medrick Burnett, Jr."
Jackson State Athletics also issued a tribute to Burnett that said: "Our thoughts and prayers go out to the family of Medrick Burnett Jr. and the entire @AAMUBulldogs community."
This article includes reporting from The Associated Press.
English (US) ·