Alabama A&M Linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr. Dies Following October Head Injury

Medrick Burnett Jr., a 20-year-old redshirt freshman linebacker for Alabama A&M University, passed away on Wednesday, November 27, 2024, succumbing to injuries sustained during a football game on October 26th. The news, initially reported prematurely by the university, then retracted, finally confirmed by the Jefferson County coroner's office, has sent shockwaves through the college football world and beyond.

The Tragic Events of October 26th

Burnett Jr. suffered a severe head injury during the Magic City Classic game against Alabama State University. The injury occurred during a violent head-on-head collision on the field. The impact was so severe that he had to be immediately taken off the field for medical attention. The incident occurred just one day before his 20th birthday, casting a dark shadow over what should have been a joyous occasion.

The Fight for His Life

Following the injury, Burnett Jr. was hospitalized at UAB Hospital in Birmingham, Alabama. He battled for his life for nearly five weeks, enduring a series of life-threatening complications. According to his sister, Dominece James, in a GoFundMe campaign to help cover medical expenses, he suffered several brain bleeds and severe swelling, ultimately requiring a craniotomy—a surgical procedure to relieve pressure on the brain.

The Premature Announcement and Retraction

Adding another layer of tragedy to this already devastating story, Alabama A&M University initially announced Burnett Jr.'s death on Wednesday morning. The announcement, based on information received from an immediate family member, was met with widespread grief and sorrow. However, later that afternoon, the university issued a retraction, revealing that the information was incorrect and that Burnett Jr. was still alive. This unexpected turn of events caused confusion and immense distress for the entire community.

The Confirmation of Death and the Aftermath

While there was hope for recovery after the retraction, the heartbreaking news of Burnett Jr.'s passing was confirmed by the Jefferson County coroner's office on Friday, November 29th. The office listed his official time of death as Wednesday evening. The university released a statement expressing deep sorrow and acknowledging Burnett Jr.'s exceptional qualities as both an athlete and a person. His death leaves a void in the hearts of his family, friends, teammates, and the entire Alabama A&M community. The impact of his passing extends far beyond the football field.

A Legacy Remembered

Medrick Burnett Jr.’s journey started at Grambling State University in Louisiana before he transferred to Alabama A&M. His former athletic director at Grambling State, Trayvean Scott, shared his devastation and recalled Burnett Jr.’s positive spirit and team player attitude. His impact on those who knew him will be remembered as a testament to his character and the mark he left on their lives. The contributions he made in the seven games he played for Alabama A&M, including five tackles and three against Austin Peay, are also a part of his lasting legacy.

A Community Mourns

A GoFundMe campaign created to assist the Burnett family with medical expenses, surpassed $48,000 by Friday, demonstrating the outpouring of support for the young athlete and his family during this difficult time. The incident highlights the inherent risks in contact sports, as well as the importance of immediate and effective medical care in such situations. The memory of Medrick Burnett Jr. will be a reminder of the resilience and spirit he showed, a spirit that touched many.

The overwhelming response showcases the powerful bond within the college football community and its deep sense of loss. The memory of Medrick Burnett Jr will always remain a part of the history of Alabama A&M University. He will be dearly missed.