The Alabama A&M football player injured in the Magic City Classic has died, the school announced

Alabama A&M University mourns the loss of Bulldogs football player Medrick Burnett Jr.

Burnett, who appeared in seven games as a redshirt freshman during the 2024 season, died Tuesday, the school announced.

“Today our Bulldog family is heartbroken by the loss of Medrick Burnett Jr.,” said Dr. Alabama A&M athletics director Paul A. Bryant in a statement. “Medrick was more than an exceptional athlete; He was a remarkable young man whose positive energy, leadership and compassion left an indelible impression on everyone who knew him. While words cannot adequately express our sadness, we are humbled by the strength of his family who stood by him throughout this unimaginable ordeal.”

Medrick Burnett Jr., a linebacker, was hospitalized after suffering a serious head injury at the Magic City Classic.

Burnett suffered the injury while defending an Alabama State kickoff return. While rushing toward the Hornets returner, he gets lost in a crowd and seemingly collides with another player, resulting in the injury.

“His 20th birthday was October 27th and one of the worst birthdays for us because he was in intensive care and not feeling well,” his family said in a public message days after the game. “He had multiple brain bleeds and brain swelling. He had to be drained through a tube to relieve the pressure and after (two) days of heavy pressure, we had to opt for a craniotomy, which was the final outcome to try to save his life.”

A crowdfunding campaign was later launched to cover medical costs.

“Medrick Burnett Jr. will forever be remembered as a Bulldog,” the school said. “His spirit will remain an inspiration to us all, reminding us of the importance of unity, resilience and love.”