BIRMINGHAM, Ala. — A tragic incident has overshadowed the Alabama A&M University football team, as linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr., just 20 years old, has died following a head injury sustained during a game in October.
Burnett sustained the injury while participating in the Magic City Classic against Alabama State University on October 26. The Jefferson County coroner confirmed his passing late Wednesday evening. Initially, the Alabama A&M athletic department announced his death on Wednesday morning, but later issued a retraction, clarifying that the information had come from an immediate family member the previous evening.
A redshirt freshman from Lakewood, California, Burnett had joined Alabama A&M’s team in the summer after previously playing at Grambling State.
The loss of a young athlete is deeply felt not just within the university, but also the wider community. The focus now is on supporting his family and teammates during this difficult time.
With this incident, it serves as a poignant reminder of the importance of player safety in contact sports, prompting calls for enhanced measures to protect athletes. Such discussions may help to foster a safer environment for future players, ensuring that their well-being remains a top priority.
Summary: Medrick Burnett Jr., a linebacker for Alabama A&M football, has died at the age of 20 from a head injury sustained during a October game against Alabama State University. The announcement was made by the athletic department and raised awareness about the need for better safety measures in college football.