Medrick Burnett Jr., a promising Alabama A&M football player, passed away after suffering a serious head injury during a game against Alabama State University last month. The 20-year-old linebacker was pronounced dead on Wednesday evening, November 29, 2024, as confirmed by the Jefferson County coroner's office. Burnett's tragic injury occurred during the annual Magic City Classic on October 26, where he sustained trauma during the first quarter of the game.
Initially, the Alabama A&M athletic department announced Burnett's death prematurely on Tuesday, leading to confusion and concern within the community. Their announcement was based on information they received from what they described as “an immediate family member.” Soon after, they retracted the statement, clarifying later the same day, stating they regretted spreading misinformation and expressing relief at learning he was still alive. A statement read, “We express our immediate regret for disseminatng false information; we hold complete joy knowing Medrick remains stable.” Unfortunately, this hope was short-lived as Burnett's condition worsened.
Burnett's sister, Dominece James, revealed the severity of his condition on social media and throughout fundraising efforts to support his medical care. She mentioned he endured multiple brain bleeds and significant swelling, which necessitated emergency surgery—a craniotomy—to relieve pressure on his brain. "He had several brain bleeds and swelling of the brain. He had to have a tube to drain to relieve the pressure, and after two days of severe pressure, we had to opt for craniotomy, which was our last resort to try to save his life," she detailed.
Originally hailing from Lakewood, California, Burnett transferred to Alabama A&M University from Grambling State University, where he began his college football career. This season, the redshirt freshman appeared in seven games for the Bulldogs, recording five tackles, including three in one game against Austin Peay.
The community surrounding Alabama A&M has rallied, showing overwhelming support for Burnett's family through various fundraising efforts. A GoFundMe had raised nearly $48,000 as of Friday morning to help with medical expenses, reflecting the deep concern and love for Burnett from fans, teammates, and the local community. "Please pray. He is having a tough time, but we are holding on till the very end. God give us strength so we can keep the faith," read one post from his sister.
Burnett's tragic passing highlights the risks inherent to contact sports, drawing attention to the need for protocol and safety measures concerning head injuries during games. While football remains popular at the collegiate level, safety surrounding player health continues to grow as injuries like Burnett's spark discussions on how schools handle such situations.
Alabama A&M University expressed deep sorrow at the loss, emphasizing how valued Burnett was to the school's football program. “He was loved not only by his teammates but by all who knew him. We will miss his spirit on and off the field,” stated the athletic department.
Though Burnett's life was cut short, his legacy may fuel discussions about player safety and mental health support within sports communities. Many believe there needs to be stronger safeguards and vigilant monitoring of players for the repercussions of injuries, along with full transparency when such serious incidents occur. The unfortunate timing of the death announcement from the university only emphasizes the need for clear and accurate communication, especially surrounding health crises.
Looking back on his brief career, one can say Burnett embodied the dedication and spirit of student-athletes everywhere. He faced adversity head-on, and the love and support he received throughout his ordeal echo the collective strength of the communities sports can bring together. The tragic end to his life serves as both a somber reminder of the fragility of life and the resilience of those who loved him and continue to fight for the safety of others on the field.
Despite the sadness surrounding his passing, there is hope and support from the entire HBCU community. Medrick Burnett Jr.'s story might inspire changes aimed at enhancing athlete safety protocols—ensuring no other young athlete faces such tragic circumstances on the field.
