Medrick Burnett Jr., a 20-year-old football player for Alabama A&M University, tragically passed away a month after sustaining a severe injury during a football game. The impact of his death has sent shockwaves through the football community.
Burnett Jr., a linebacker, was injured during the Magic City Classic on October 26 in Birmingham. He was pronounced dead at 5:43 p.m. on Wednesday at UAB Hospital, according to Jefferson County Deputy Coroner Matt Angelo.
His sister, Dominece James, shared on GoFundMe that Burnett suffered multiple brain bleeds after a head-on collision during a tackle in the game against Alabama State University at Legion Field. Despite undergoing a craniotomy to reduce brain swelling, Burnett’s condition continued to deteriorate.
The Alabama A&M community was initially misinformed about Burnett’s passing on Wednesday morning, but the university later corrected the statement, confirming he was still alive and in stable condition at that time. The error was attributed to receiving inaccurate information.
Originally from Lakewood, California, Burnett was a redshirt freshman who had recently transferred to Alabama A&M from Grambling State. Prior to his untimely death, he had shown promise on the field with three solo tackles and two assists during the season.
The exact cause of Burnett’s death remains unknown as further tests are pending. The unexpected loss of such a young and talented player has left the football community mourning and reflecting on the importance of player safety in the sport.
This tragic incident serves as a reminder of the inherent risks involved in football and the need for continued efforts to prioritize player well-being and safety. The impact of Medrick Burnett Jr.’s passing will undoubtedly be felt throughout the football community, sparking discussions and initiatives to prevent similar tragedies in the future.
