Alabama A&M Football Player Medrick Burnett Jr. Dies at Age 20 After Sustaining Football-Related Injury
Grieving University
AAMU President Dr. Andrew Hugine III expressed his condolences to the Burnett family and the university community. “This is a devastating loss for our football team, our university, and our community,” he said in a statement. “Medrick was a promising young man who had a bright future ahead of him.”
Incident Details
Burnett sustained injuries during a football practice on August 8, 2023. He was transported to Huntsville Hospital, where he underwent emergency surgery but sadly succumbed to his injuries on August 11th. The exact cause of death is still under investigation.
Student-Athlete Legacy
Burnett, a native of Opelika, Alabama, was a redshirt sophomore defensive back for the Bulldogs. He was described by coaches and teammates as a hardworking and dedicated student-athlete. He had a promising future in football, having recorded 20 tackles and two interceptions in the previous season.
Community Support
The AAMU community and the wider Huntsville area are offering their support to the Burnett family and the university. A candlelight vigil is planned for August 12th on campus. GoFundMe campaigns have also been set up to assist the family with expenses.
Safety Concerns
Burnett’s death has raised concerns about the safety of football and the need for proper training and equipment. The university is working with the NCAA and other organizations to review its safety protocols and ensure the well-being of student-athletes.
Forward-Looking Actions
In the wake of Burnett’s tragic passing, AAMU and other football programs are exploring ways to improve player safety. This includes exploring advancements in helmets, concussion protocols, and player education. The goal is to create a safer environment that allows athletes to play the sport they love while minimizing the risk of serious injuries.
