Alabama A&M University is mourning the loss of one of its own as Medrick Burnett Jr., a 20-year-old redshirt freshman linebacker for the Bulldogs football team, has passed away after sustaining a head injury during the annual Magic City Classic game against Alabama State on October 26. Burnett’s death, confirmed by AJ Clifton, deputy coroner for the Jefferson County Coroner/Medical Examiner Office, was officially pronounced on Wednesday. Burnett had shown immense promise as a football player and student-athlete, having played seven games in the 2024 season after transferring from Grambling State University. This tragic development has sent shockwaves through the Alabama A&M community, as well as the wider collegiate sports world.
The Jefferson County Coroner’s Office has not yet disclosed the cause or manner of Burnett’s death, though Clifton noted that additional details might emerge in a statement expected to be released on Saturday. This delay has prompted a wave of questions and speculation surrounding the circumstances of Burnett’s passing, particularly given the timeline of his injury and the unusual events that preceded the announcement of his death. The injury itself occurred during one of Alabama’s most anticipated college football events, the Magic City Classic, an annual rivalry game that attracts thousands of fans and alumni to celebrate the legacy and pride of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). On October 26, during the matchup between Alabama A&M and Alabama State, Burnett suffered what was initially described as a significant head injury. Despite receiving immediate medical attention on the field and being transported to a nearby hospital, his condition reportedly worsened over the ensuing weeks.
Compounding the tragedy is the series of miscommunications earlier this week regarding Burnett’s status. On Tuesday evening, Alabama A&M officials mistakenly announced that Burnett had died, based on information reportedly shared by a family member. The athletic department quickly issued a retraction after discovering that Burnett was still alive at the time. In a follow-up statement, the university referred to the premature announcement as an “unfortunate occurrence” and apologized for the distress caused by the error. The mix-up has drawn criticism from some corners for its lack of clarity and sensitivity, though others have expressed understanding, acknowledging the challenges of managing accurate information in the midst of a medical crisis. Alabama A&M has not yet responded to requests for additional comments from media outlets, leaving the timeline and decision-making process behind the erroneous announcement unclear.
Burnett’s passing has cast a somber shadow over the Alabama A&M campus, where he was widely regarded as a dedicated and hardworking athlete. Born and raised in Baton Rouge, Louisiana, Burnett demonstrated an early talent for football, playing as a standout linebacker at Southern University Laboratory School. His athletic ability, combined with his determination and leadership skills, earned him a scholarship to Grambling State University, where he began his collegiate football career. In 2023, Burnett transferred to Alabama A&M in search of new opportunities and a fresh start. As a redshirt freshman, he quickly earned the respect of his teammates and coaches, becoming an integral part of the Bulldogs’ defensive lineup. This season, he played in seven games, recording key tackles and displaying the potential to become a cornerstone of the team’s defense in the years to come.
Burnett’s coaches and teammates have expressed their grief and admiration for the young athlete in a series of heartfelt tributes. Head coach Connell Maynor described Burnett as a player with immense potential and a relentless work ethic. “Medrick embodied everything we value in a student-athlete,” Maynor said. “He was a competitor, a leader, and a friend to everyone in our program. His loss is heartbreaking for all of us, and our thoughts and prayers are with his family during this difficult time.” Players have also shared their memories of Burnett, highlighting his positive attitude, sense of humor, and unwavering commitment to his teammates. “Medrick was more than just a teammate; he was like a brother to us,” said senior linebacker Kendall Robinson. “He pushed us to be better every day, and we’ll carry his memory with us every time we step on the field.”
The Magic City Classic, where Burnett sustained his fatal injury, holds a special place in the tradition of HBCU football, drawing tens of thousands of fans to Birmingham’s Legion Field each year. The game is more than a sporting event; it is a cultural celebration of HBCU pride, history, and community. This year’s matchup between Alabama A&M and Alabama State was closely contested, with both teams battling for bragging rights and a chance to energize their respective fan bases. However, the excitement of the game has been overshadowed by the tragic loss of Burnett. The incident has prompted renewed conversations about player safety in college football, particularly concerning the protocols for diagnosing and treating head injuries. While football remains one of America’s most beloved sports, its physicality and inherent risks have led to ongoing debates about how to better protect athletes at all levels of play.
Experts in sports medicine and athletic training have pointed to the need for continued advancements in equipment design, medical protocols, and education to mitigate the risks associated with head injuries. The NCAA has implemented a series of concussion management guidelines in recent years, requiring teams to follow strict protocols for evaluating and treating players who sustain head trauma. These measures include immediate removal from play, thorough medical assessments, and a step-by-step process for returning to competition. Despite these efforts, incidents like Burnett’s injury underscore the challenges of fully addressing the complexities of traumatic brain injuries, particularly in a high-speed, high-impact sport like football.
As the investigation into Burnett’s death continues, his family, friends, and supporters are left grappling with the profound loss of a young life filled with promise. Burnett’s mother, Sharon Jackson, issued a statement thanking the community for its outpouring of love and support. “Medrick was a bright light in our lives, and his passing leaves a void that can never be filled,” Jackson wrote. “We ask for your prayers as we navigate this unimaginable tragedy, and we hope that his story will inspire others to cherish every moment and pursue their dreams with the same passion he showed every day.”
In the coming days, Alabama A&M is expected to host a memorial service to honor Burnett’s life and legacy. The event will provide an opportunity for the university community to come together in mourning, reflection, and celebration of a young man who touched the lives of many. Plans for the service include a moment of silence at the team’s next home game, as well as the establishment of a scholarship fund in Burnett’s name to support future student-athletes. As his teammates prepare to take the field without him, they are determined to dedicate the remainder of the season to his memory, drawing strength from his example and striving to embody the qualities that made him a beloved member of the Bulldogs family.
Burnett’s death has also sparked broader discussions about the importance of mental health and emotional support for student-athletes, who often face immense pressure to perform both on and off the field. University officials have emphasized the availability of counseling services for students, faculty, and staff affected by the tragedy. Athletic Director Bryan Hicks urged the community to prioritize compassion and understanding during this difficult time. “We are committed to supporting our student-athletes and the entire Alabama A&M family as we grieve the loss of Medrick,” Hicks said. “His impact on our program and our lives will not be forgotten, and we will honor his legacy by continuing to uphold the values he exemplified.”
As the community mourns, the focus remains on celebrating Burnett’s life and the enduring legacy of his passion, determination, and kindness. His story serves as a poignant reminder of the resilience of the human spirit and the profound impact that one individual can have on the lives of others. While his journey was tragically cut short, Medrick Burnett Jr. will forever be remembered as a shining example of what it means to live with purpose, grace, and an unwavering commitment to excellence.
