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Alabama A&M announced Wednesday the death of redshirt freshman linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr.
“Today, our Bulldog family is heartbroken by the loss of Medrick Burnett Jr.,” athletics director Dr. Paul A. Bryant said. “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.”
WAFF 48 reported that Burnett died Tuesday, a month after he suffered an injury in the Bulldogs’ 27-19 loss to Alabama State on Oct. 26. His sister, Dominece James, set up a GoFundMe days after the initial injury that said he was in the ICU and had experienced “several brain bleeds and swelling of the brain.”
Burnett made seven appearances for Alabama A&M this season and had five total tackles.
The Lakewood, California, native was in his first full year with the program after having transferred in from Grambling State. He had followed Cedric Thornton, who was Grambling State’s defensive coordinator before returning to his alma mater and joining the Bulldogs’ staff in the offseason.
“We extend our deepest condolences and prayers to Medrick’s parents, siblings, and loved ones,” the school said in Wednesday’s statement. “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.”
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