College Football

Alabama A&M Football Player Dies After In-Game Hit To The Head

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Medrick Burnett Jr., a linebacker at Alabama A&M University, has passed away weeks after suffering a serious head injury during a game vs. Alabama State University (October 26).

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At first when the incident occurred, Burnett, who was a redshirt freshman from Lakewood California, had been taken away in a stretcher but ultimately gave a thumbs up to the crowd upon being wheeled away.

Now after the devastating news of his passing one month later, this tragedy has been felt across not only the campus but also the country.

Alabama A&M Director of Athletics Dr. Paul A. Bryant released a tribute statement.

"Today, our Bulldog family is heartbroken by the loss of Medrick Burnett Jr. 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."

He continued, "We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to Medrick's parents, siblings, and loved ones. We also offer our heartfelt support to his teammates, coaches, and the entire Alabama A&M community who are mourning this loss. In this moment of sorrow, we come together to honor Medrick's legacy and celebrate the light he brought to our lives. May we all draw strength from one another as we navigate this difficult time."

To note, Burnett's sister, Dominece James, launched a GoFundMe for her little brother, saying Medrick, who just celebrated his 20th birthday on Oct. 27 (one day after the incident), had several brain bleeds and swelling.

"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," James said.

Per TMZ, the fundraiser raised $27,000 at the time, which included a $1,000 donation from Hue Jackson, who coached at Grambling State, Burnett's former school.

Jackson, a two-time NFL head coach, spoke on Burnett's tragic injury when it happened last month, as he made a post on social media.

"A football coaches worst nightmare... a player that is seriously injured while playing the game he loves," Jackson wrote. "Me and Coach Kenny Delgado recruited Medrick to Grambling State University out of California last year and we proudly put him in the hands of another great coach, Cedric Thorton at AAMU and although I am no longer his coach, I will always support him and he and his family have all of my prayers."

The Mayfair High School standout will always be remembered by his family/friends, coaches/teammates, and fans.

Burnett's high school coach, Derek Bedell, also released a heartfelt message:

Dr. Bryant: "His spirit will remain an inspiration to all of us, reminding us of the importance of unity, resilience, and love."

Related: 18-Year-Old College Basketball Player Kaiden Francis Tragically Died After Collapsing On Campus

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