The Alabama A&M University community is in mourning following the heartbreaking loss of linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr., a 20-year-old redshirt freshman who tragically passed away from a mid-game head injury last month.
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TMZ reports Burnett, who was playing his first season with the Bulldogs, suffered the injury during the Magic City Classic on Oct. 26, a fierce rivalry game against Alabama State University held in Birmingham, Alabama.
Burnett’s injury occurred on the field and was severe enough to require immediate medical intervention. According to his family, doctors performed emergency procedures, including the insertion of a drainage tube to relieve cranial pressure. Despite these efforts, the swelling persisted, leading to a craniotomy as a last resort to save his life. Tragically, Medrick Burnett Jr. passed away late Wednesday afternoon, as confirmed by the Jefferson County Coroner’s Office.
Burnett, a native of Lakewood, California, joined Alabama A&M’s football team over the summer after beginning his collegiate career at Grambling State University. He played in seven games during his first season with the Bulldogs, recording five tackles, including a standout performance with three tackles against Austin Peay.
The Alabama A&M Community Mourns Medrick Burnett Jr.
The loss of Burnett has been deeply felt by his teammates, coaches, and fans. The university’s athletics department, though unavailable for comment. In the wake of this tragedy, the community has rallied around Burnett’s family. A GoFundMe campaign was set up to assist with medical expenses, and it has raised over $48,000. The outpouring of support reflects the impact Burnett had on those around him, both on and off the field.
Alabama A&M football players, staff, and fans took to social media to grieve and pay tribute to Burnett’s memory. As the university and broader community continue to cope with this loss, their thoughts are with Burnett’s family, friends, and teammates.
For those wishing to support Burnett’s family, donations can still be made through the GoFundMe campaign. In this time of grief, we send our prayers and deepest condolences to his loved ones, standing in solidarity with the Alabama A&M community as they honor his memory.
