Alabama A&M retracts previous statement and confirms football player Medrick Burnett Jr.’s death from head injury

Alabama A&M University mourns the loss of the linebacker Medrick Burnett Jr.who died Wednesday night from a head injury sustained during the annual Magic City Classic. Burnett, just 20, suffered the injury on October 26 during a game against Alabama State University.

The Jefferson County coroner confirmed Burnett’s death Friday, listing the official time of death as Wednesday evening. His death comes weeks after the redshirt freshman was hospitalized following the on-field incident.

The announcement of Burnett’s death followed a day of confusion. Alabama A&M initially reported his death Wednesday morning, attributing the information to an immediate family member. However, the university later retracted the statement, clarifying that the earlier information was premature.

On Friday, the coroner’s office confirmed the tragic news.

A native of Lakewood, California, Burnett joined the Alabama A&M football program this summer after beginning his college career at Grambling State University. As a redshirt freshman, he was eager to make a name for himself on the field and was known for his dedication and hard work.

At the Magic City Classic, one of the most celebrated events in HBCU football, Burnett suffered a serious injury that ultimately led to his death.

Burnett’s death sent shockwaves through the Alabama A&M community and the entire HBCU sports world. Friends, teammates and fans have taken to social media to express their condolences and share memories of the promising young athlete.