How Did Brandon Burlsworth Die? A Comprehensive Guide

Brandon Burlsworth was a talented football player who sadly died in a car accident on April 28, 1999, just 11 days after being chosen to play in the NFL by the Indianapolis Colts. But his story is not just about how he died—it’s also about how he lived. Brandon worked incredibly hard to go from a walk-on player at the University of Arkansas to becoming one of the best college football players in the country. His life was full of determination and big achievements. Please keep reading to discover How Did Brandon Burlsworth Die? what happened on that tragic day, and how his memory inspires people today.

Brandon Vaughn Burlsworth was born in Harrison, Arkansas, on September 20, 1976. He loved football from a young age and wanted to play for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks when he grew up. Even though Brandon wasn’t the biggest or fastest player, he worked harder than anyone else.

Brandon played football at Harrison High School. He was a good player but was different from the type of player big colleges sought. Still, Brandon didn’t let that stop him. He decided to try out for the University of Arkansas football team, even though he didn’t have a scholarship. This means he had to earn his place on the team without any special help.

Joining the University of Arkansas:

In 1994, Brandon started his journey with the University of Arkansas as a “walk-on” player. This means he wasn’t given a spot on the team right away and had to work extra hard to prove himself. At first, it was tough for Brandon. He didn’t have the natural talent that some other players had, but he had something just as important: determination.

Brandon trained harder than ever in the gym and on the field. He gained muscle, learned new techniques, and became known for paying attention to every detail. His hard work paid off when he earned a scholarship in his second year. This was a big deal because he had proven he belonged on the team.

Becoming a Star Player:

By his third year at the University of Arkansas, Brandon had become a starting player on the football team. He was known for being strong, quick, and smart on the field. In 1998, he was named to the All-SEC (Southeastern Conference) team, which means he was one of the best players in the conference. In 1999, he was honored as a First-Team All-American, making him one of the best players in the entire country.

Brandon’s story was truly amazing because he went from being a walk-on player who didn’t have a guaranteed spot on the team to becoming one of the best players in college football. His journey showed that hard work and dedication can lead to great success.

Achieving His NFL Dream:

After his college career, Brandon’s dream of playing in the NFL came true. In 1999, he was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts, which means they chose him to join their team. He was picked in the third round, which was a big accomplishment. Brandon was excited about this new chapter and was ready to start his professional football career.

But sadly, Brandon’s journey took a tragic turn just days after being drafted.

On April 28, 1999, only 11 days after he was drafted into the NFL, Brandon Burlsworth was involved in a car accident. After working out with his former college team, he was driving back to his hometown, Harrison, Arkansas. Something terrible happened while driving on U.S. Route 412 near Alpena, Arkansas.

Brandon’s car hit a large truck, swerved back into his lane, and collided with another big truck head-on. The crash was very serious, and Brandon died at the scene. He was only 22 years old. This sudden and tragic accident shocked everyone who knew him. People were heartbroken that such a talented young person was taken away so soon.

Remembering Brandon: A Legacy of Kindness

After Brandon’s death, many people wanted to ensure his memory lived on. His family and friends started the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation to honor him. This organization helps children, especially those who don’t have many opportunities. One of their programs, Burls Kids, allows kids to attend University of Arkansas football games and other special events.

The foundation also awards scholarships to students who work hard and show great determination, like Brandon. These scholarships help young people achieve their dreams.

The Brandon Burlsworth Trophy: An Award for Hard Work

In 2010, the University of Arkansas and the Burlsworth family created the Brandon Burlsworth Trophy. This award is given yearly to the best college football player who started as a walk-on, just like Brandon did. Winning this trophy is a huge honor because it shows that the player worked hard to succeed.

The trophy reminds everyone of Brandon’s story and how he never gave up, even when things were tough. It celebrates players who have overcome challenges and achieved greatness through hard work.

A Movie About Brandon’sBrandon’s Life: Greater

Brandon Burlsworth’s Burlsworth’s inspiring story was turned into a movie called Greater, released in 2016. The film tells the story of his life, from his childhood in Harrison, Arkansas, to his days playing football for the University of Arkansas, and finally, his tragic death.

Greater shows how Brandon’s determination, faith, and kindness made him a hero to many people. The movie helps keep his memory alive and continues to inspire people worldwide.

We discuss above in detail about How Did Brandon Burlsworth Die? Brandon Burlsworth’s life may have been short, but his impact was huge. He showed the world that you can achieve great things with hard work, determination, and a strong belief in yourself. Even though his life ended in a tragic accident, his story inspires and motivates others.

His legacy lives on through the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, the Brandon Burlsworth Trophy, and the movie Greater. Brandon’s life teaches us that no matter how difficult things seem, we should never give up on our dreams.