Medrick Burnett Jr. from Alabama A&M dies from head injury

Alabama A&M linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr. died Tuesday night from a head injury suffered exactly a month earlier in a game against Alabama State. He was 20 years old.

Alabama A&M announced Burnett’s death on Wednesday.

“Today our Bulldog family is devastated by the loss of Medrick Burnett Jr.” – Alabama A&M athletic director Dr. Paul A. Bryant said in a statement. “Medrick was more than just an exceptional athlete; he was an extraordinary young man whose positive energy, leadership and compassion left an indelible mark on all who knew him. While words cannot adequately express our sadness, we are honored by the strength of his family who stood by his side during this unimaginable ordeal.

“We offer 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 as they mourn this loss. In this moment of sadness, we come together to honor Medrick’s legacy and celebrate the light he brought into our lives.”

According to his sister Dominece James’ GoFundMe page, Burnett was injured in a direct collision during a 27-19 loss to Alabama State during the Magic City Classic in Birmingham. She showed a photo from the hospital showing her brother buried in pipes and other equipment. James said her brother had severe brain swelling and bleeding.

WAFF-TV in Huntsville, Alabama, aired video of the play during which he was injured, although it is unclear how he suffered such a serious injury.

The footage also shows Burnett being carried off the pitch on a stretcher. Burnett gave a thumbs up to the crowd as he was wheeled away.

According to the station, Burnett’s condition worsened in the days after the game.

Burnett, a redshirt freshman from Lakewood, Calif., has five tackles in seven games this season. He was a transfer from Grambling State.

Alabama A&M (6-5) will play against Florida A&M on Friday.

– Field level media REUTERS