Alabama A&M linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr. tragically passed away after suffering a head injury during a college football game in October. The Jefferson County, Alabama coroner’s office confirmed the 20-year-old athlete’s death on Wednesday evening, just hours after his team mistakenly announced his passing.
The university’s athletic department issued an apology for the error, attributing the premature announcement to misinformation received from a family member the previous evening. Despite the initial confusion, it was clarified that Burnett was in stable condition following the incident.
Burnett sustained the critical injury during a game against Alabama State University on October 26. His mother, Denise Burnett, confirmed that he was alive and receiving medical care at a local hospital. The family expressed gratitude for the outpouring of support and requested prayers for their son’s recovery.
A statement on a GoFundMe page set up for Burnett emphasized the family’s faith and resilience during this challenging time. They remain hopeful and steadfast in their belief that he will pull through.
Originally from Lakewood, California, Burnett had recently joined the Alabama A&M Bulldogs for his first season after transferring from Grambling State University in Louisiana. He had played in seven games for the team before the tragic incident occurred.
The football community mourns the loss of a talented young player and offers condolences to Burnett’s family and friends during this difficult period. May his memory live on as a reminder of the passion and dedication he brought to the game.
