Burlsworth story is worth remembering.
Brandon Burlsworth is his name. Growing up in Arkansas, Brandon loved playing sports, especially football. And while his talent was limited, his motivation was anything but. Slowly but surely, coaches took notice. In high school, Burlsworth rarely made the field as a sophomore lineman but, by his senior year, Burlsworth not only started but made the state all-star team.
Still, Division 1 schools weren’t interested. Two lower-division schools were, but Burlsworth declined. His dream was playing for his home-state Arkansas Razorbacks. In 1994, he made his way to Fayetteville. Without a scholarship, his goal was to join the team as a walk-on.
Courtesy: Murray Ledger and Times
Things didn’t look promising. For one thing, he had put on pounds, tilting the scales at 300 pounds, and that extra weight affected his agility. Undeterred, Burlsworth dropped down to 260, gained muscle, and made the scout team. With time, he earned some playing time–not much– but enough to earn an athletic scholarship by the time he was a junior.
And, man, did he take advantage! A crowd favorite with signature eyewear visible under his helmet, this former walk-on eventually became an all-American player.
Would the NFL take notice? Would it ever! Burlsworth was the 63rd overall pick (Indianapolis Colts) in the 1999 NFL Draft. Analysts said he’d compete for a starting job.
But he never got the chance to play. On his way to pick up his mother for Sunday church service, Burlsworth was killed in an auto accident only a week after being drafted. He was 22 years old.
Each year, the NCAA bestows an award in Burlsworth’s honor. It’s given to an outstanding player who started his college career as a walk-on and then excelled in on-the-field play. The Browns’ Baker Mayfield is a winner.
Gone but certainly not forgotten, Brandon Burlsworth epitomizes what can happen with hard work and persistence.
