Nick Saban Express in deep sadness over Alabama A&M Football Player Medrick Burnett Jr. death
Tragedy struck the Alabama A&M University football program on November 30, 2024, as it was confirmed that freshman defensive back **Medrick Burnett Jr.** has passed away following a head injury sustained during a game. Burnett, who was a standout in his first season with the Bulldogs, was involved in a collision during the fourth quarter of Alabama A&M’s home game against Southern University on November 29. The injury led to his immediate hospitalization, but despite the best efforts of medical personnel, Burnett succumbed to his injuries the following day.
### A Heartbreaking Loss for the Alabama A&M Community
Medrick Burnett Jr., a 19-year-old from **Birmingham, Alabama**, had been making an impact on the field in his freshman year. Known for his athleticism, work ethic, and natural talent as a defensive back, Burnett had quickly earned the respect of his teammates, coaches, and fans. His potential as a future leader for the Bulldogs was widely recognized, and his untimely death has left the entire Alabama A&M community in mourning.
“We are devastated by the loss of Medrick Burnett Jr.,” said Alabama A&M head coach **Connell Maynor**. “He was not only a talented player but also a great person. His passion for the game, his infectious personality, and his dedication to his teammates will be remembered forever. Our hearts go out to his family, friends, and everyone who knew him. This is an incredibly difficult time for all of us.”
Burnett’s death has shaken the college football community, particularly at Alabama A&M, where he was seen as a rising star. His passing also highlights the inherent risks that come with playing contact sports like football. The circumstances surrounding his injury are still under investigation, but his family, friends, and teammates are struggling to come to terms with the loss of such a young life.
### The Incident and Immediate Response
The injury occurred late in the game with Alabama A&M trailing Southern University. Burnett, who had been playing a strong defensive game, was involved in a tackle attempt in which his head and neck took a direct blow. Players, coaches, and medical personnel immediately recognized the severity of the situation, and Burnett was quickly attended to by the team’s medical staff. He was then transported by ambulance to a nearby hospital, where he received emergency treatment.
The outpouring of support from his teammates, coaches, and fans has been overwhelming in the days since. Many players and members of the Alabama A&M program have shared tributes on social media, reflecting on Burnett’s character, his contributions to the team, and his bright future.
“Medrick was a brother to all of us,” said **David McDaniel**, a senior defensive player. “He was always upbeat, always pushing us to be better. It hurts, but we know he would want us to stay strong and finish the season for him. We will play the rest of this season in his honor.”
### A Strong Legacy, Gone Too Soon
Burnett, who was a graduate of **Woodlawn High School** in Birmingham, joined Alabama A&M as a highly recruited freshman in the summer of 2024. A natural athlete, he had always been drawn to football, excelling at every level of competition. His talent on the field and his leadership off it made him a beloved figure in the locker room. Coaches described him as a player who always gave 100% and was deeply committed to his academics as well as his sport.
The Bulldogs are now grappling with the emotional toll of the tragedy. The team has announced that they will dedicate the remainder of their season to Burnett’s memory, and his No. 21 jersey will be retired in honor of his contributions to the program.
### Support for the Burnett Family
As Alabama A&M rallies around Burnett’s family, the university has pledged to support them in every way possible. A memorial service for Burnett is being planned, and the football program will continue to honor his memory both on and off the field. Fans of Alabama A&M are also being encouraged to make donations to a memorial fund set up to assist the Burnett family during this difficult time.
Football is often seen as a game of physicality and toughness, but moments like these remind everyone of the fragility of life. The passing of Medrick Burnett Jr. is a painful reminder of the risks involved in the sport, and it has brought the Alabama A&M community closer together as they grieve the loss of a young life full of promise.
**Rest in peace, Medrick. Roll Tide, forever in our hearts.**
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