On Wednesday, the Alabama A&M Bulldogs announced the passing of linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr. The cause of death came from a serious head injury he suffered when the Bulldogs played Alabama State in October.
Terrible news out of Alabama A&M, as Medrick Burnett Jr., redshirt freshman LB from California, died of injuries suffered from a head-on collision during the Magic City Classic. He was 20 years old. pic.twitter.com/fpCxtUB6zQ
— RedditCFB (@RedditCFB) November 27, 2024
“Today, our Bulldog family is heartbroken by the loss of Medrick Burnett Jr.,” athletics director Dr. Paul A. Bryant said. “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.”
The injury was believed to have already been serious after Burnett’s sister started a GoFundMe page that stated: “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.”
He also recently celebrated his 20th birthday on October 27 while in the hospital. This is also a great reminder of the sacrifices that players like Burnett make when suiting up for every game and practice.
This Was Medrick Burnett Jr.’s First Year Playing
He originally started his career at Grambling State University before transferring to Alabama A&M before the season.
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Burnett saw time on the field as a redshirt freshman, recording five total tackles for the Bulldogs through seven games.