Burlsworth’s collegiate football career is a remarkable story of talent, perseverance, and dedication. As an offensive lineman, he played for the Arkansas Razorbacks from 1995 to 1998, leaving his mark on sports history. His career started in 1994 at Harrison High School, where he was a standout student and an All-State selection.
His choice to turn down scholarship offers from smaller colleges and play as a volunteer walk-on at the University of Arkansas was what made him stand out. In the same way, he began his college career in 1994 as a redshirt, a year that would change his life. He dropped a lot of weight, going from a 300-pound man to a 260-pound athlete.
He transformed himself into a strong 300-pound offensive guard by sheer hard effort, and in 1996, during his sophomore year, he was awarded a scholarship and secured a highly sought-after starting spot at right guard.
Brandon Burlsworth Car Accident Linked Death Cause
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Just eleven days had passed since Brandon Burlsworth’s ambition of being an NFL player had been realized with his draft selection. After working out in Fayetteville, he returned to his hometown of Harrison, Arkansas, on April 28, 1999, and was tragically killed in an automobile accident. The accident’s details were terrifying: Burlsworth’s car struck an approaching 18-wheeler and momentarily swerved back into its lane before crashing into another tractor-trailer.
This terrible accident happened on a reasonably safe stretch of road close to Carrollton. “Unknown reasons” were given in a state police investigation as to why Burlsworth’s vehicle crossed the center line and struck the tractor-trailers. Tragically, Brandon Burlsworth was pronounced deceased at the scene of the accident. Far from the football field, the talented young athlete left a legacy of tenacity and determination when he was buried in Omaha, Arkansas’s Gass Cemetery on May 2, 1999.
Brandon Burlsworth Obituary
The horrific car accident that claimed Brandon’s life in 1999 made a lasting impact on football and other sports. In honor of him, a number of sincere memorials have been erected to honor his legacy and ideals. Started in 2010, the Burlsworth Trophy is an annual recognition given to the best walk-on college football players, echoing Brandon’s inspirational career path.
The expression “Do it the Burls Way” was first used by Houston Nutt, the former head football coach of the Arkansas Razorbacks, to describe the dedication to doing things well even when no one is looking. This statement perfectly captures the spirit of the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, demonstrating his ongoing impact.
Brandon’s jersey number, 77, is the second-ever retired football jersey in the history of the University of Arkansas. The Razorback locker room, with his locker preserved in a glass case, serves as a continual reminder of his commitment. In May 1999, the Youth Center in Harrison, Arkansas was renamed the Brandon Burlsworth Youth Center in honor of his contributions to the community.
For the duration of the 1999 season, the Indianapolis Colts honored him by donning their helmets with his initials, BB. During the first Colts game after Brandon’s untimely death, the Colts showed their respect by giving $5,000 cheques to the University of Arkansas Athletic Director and each of Brandon’s family members.
Brandon Burlsworth Family And Friends Mourn
In remembrance of Brandon Burlsworth’s unyielding work ethic and unwavering Christian principles, his family and friends banded together to establish the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation after his untimely death. This Christian organization was founded with the lofty goal of giving children, particularly those who are faced with restricted options in life, both physical and spiritual care.
The foundation’s logo is the iconic picture of Brandon wearing black-framed glasses, which represents both his unique style and his unwavering dedication to improving the lives of others. The foundation’s mission is supported by donations and sales of items with Burlsworth themes.
On the foundation’s website, readers may choose from a variety of products, including t-shirts and hats with Brandon’s name and image as well as movies and books that highlight his inspirational path. These sales generate revenue that goes toward the admirable goals of the foundation.
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