Did the Colts give Burlsworth family money? This has been one of the most talked about topics by football fans and experts alike. The sudden demise of Brandon Burlsworth, a former Indianapolis Colts player, during a car accident in 1999 shook the entire football community. However, rumors soon started making rounds that the Colts had given Burlsworth’s family a large sum of money to settle any wrongful death claims. But, did they really do that?
It’s hard to say for sure whether the Colts provided any financial assistance to Burlsworth’s family. Some people believe that the team must have given money to the family as a way to pay tribute to their fallen player, while others are skeptical about the speculations. Nonetheless, what’s undeniable is that Burlsworth was a talented player and his absence was felt by many in the Colts organization.
As we discuss this topic further, it’s important to keep in mind that this is not just a football story but a human one. The death of a loved one is always a difficult thing to bear, and it doesn’t help when rumors and speculations surround their passing. Hopefully, we can shed some light on this issue and bring some closure to Burlsworth’s family and fans.
The Life Story of Brandon Burlsworth
Brandon Burlsworth was a football player born on September 20, 1976, in Harrison, Arkansas. He was a standout high school football player, earning various state awards and leading his team to the state championship game in his senior year. Despite receiving offers from various colleges, Brandon decided to play for the University of Arkansas.
During his first two years of college, Brandon struggled to get playing time due to his lack of speed and agility. However, he was determined to improve and became known as one of the hardest working players on the team. He started every game during his junior and senior year and was recognized as an All-American and team captain.
- Brandon’s dedication and work ethic on the football field earned him the nickname “The Great Burlini”.
- He also became known for his strong Christian faith and commitment to living a virtuous life.
- Off the field, Brandon was a dedicated student and earned a degree in business administration.
Despite being projected as a late-round pick in the 1999 NFL draft, Brandon was selected in the third round by the Indianapolis Colts. He was the highest draft pick for the University of Arkansas since 1989.
Unfortunately, Brandon’s NFL career was tragically cut short. On April 28, 1999, just eleven days after being drafted, Brandon was killed in a car accident on his way home from a workout with the Colts. He was only 22 years old.
| Brandon Burlsworth’s Achievements | |
|---|---|
| All-SEC (1997, 1998) | SEC Offensive Lineman of the Year (1998) |
| All-American (1998) | Senior Bowl MVP (1999) |
| Indianapolis Colts third-round draft pick (1999) | Jersey number 77 retired by the University of Arkansas |
Brandon’s legacy lives on through the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, a non-profit organization that provides opportunities and support to underprivileged children and college athletes. The foundation also awards the Burlsworth Trophy to college football’s most outstanding player who began his career as a walk-on.
The tragedy that struck the Burlsworth family
Brandon Burlsworth’s rise to fame was cut short when he tragically died in a car accident on April 28, 1999. He was only 22 years old at the time. The accident occurred while he was on his way back home after a workout at the Arkansas Razorbacks facility.
This news came as an absolute shock to the Burlsworth family who had just celebrated Brandon’s acceptance into the Indianapolis Colts. Brandon was the epitome of hard work and dedication, and his sudden death left his family and friends devastated.
The struggles faced by the Burlsworth family after Brandon’s death
- Emotional Trauma – The Burlsworth family was deeply affected by Brandon’s death. It was a sudden blow that left them struggling to come to terms with his loss.
- Financial Burden – Brandon had signed a contract with the Indianapolis Colts for $1.3 million before his death. However, the money had not yet been paid out, leaving the family in a difficult financial situation.
- Legal Battles – The Burlsworth family was also embroiled in a legal battle over Brandon’s estate, further adding to their struggles.
Did the Colts give the Burlsworth family money?
There has been much speculation over whether the Indianapolis Colts organization gave any money to the Burlsworth family after Brandon’s death. Some reports suggest that the organization did provide some financial assistance to the family, while others claim that they did not.
According to an article published in the New York Times, the Colts had promised to pay the full amount of Brandon’s contract to his family. However, the team was sold and ownership changed hands, and the new owners decided not to honor the agreement.
In 2005, Marty Domres, a former executive with the Colts, stated in an interview with the Associated Press that the team did give $300,000 to the Burlsworth family. However, this has not been confirmed by either the Colts or the Burlsworth family.
The legacy of Brandon Burlsworth and the Burlsworth Foundation
In spite of the struggles faced by the Burlsworth family after Brandon’s death, his legacy has continued to inspire many people. The Burlsworth Foundation was set up in his honor to support the academic and athletic pursuits of underprivileged children.
| Accomplishments of the Burlsworth Foundation | Year |
|---|---|
| Establishment of a scholarship program for high school athletes | 2000 |
| Sponsorship of the Burlsworth Trophy, awarded to the most outstanding college football player who began his career as a walk-on | 2010 |
| Launch of Kids Kingdom, an inclusive playground for children of all abilities | 2017 |
The Burlsworth Foundation continues to make a positive impact in the lives of many children, and Brandon’s legacy lives on.
What happened to Brandon Burlsworth?
Brandon Burlsworth was a former football player for the University of Arkansas Razorbacks. He was a standout player who became renowned for his tenacity, dedication, and selflessness on the field.
Unfortunately, Burlsworth’s football career came to an abrupt end when he died in a car accident on April 28, 1999. He was only 22 years old at the time of his death.
Did the Colts give Burlsworth family money?
- After Burlsworth’s death, a foundation was established in his memory to help underprivileged children.
- The Indianapolis Colts, the team that had drafted Burlsworth, made a $250,000 contribution to the foundation as a way of honoring Burlsworth’s memory.
- Additionally, the team decided to retire Burlsworth’s number, and the Colts organization has continued to be involved with the foundation.
Making a difference in the community
In the wake of Burlsworth’s tragic death, his family and friends turned their grief into a powerful force for good.
The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation has since raised millions of dollars to support children in need, award scholarships, provide free eye exams and glasses to Arkansas schoolchildren, and donate to organizations that help children who are victims of abuse.
As part of their efforts, the foundation has also established a football program for elementary school children called “Burls Kids.” The program helps to teach kids about teamwork, discipline, and perseverance, while also emphasizing the importance of education and personal responsibility.
| Fundraising events organized by the foundation include: |
|---|
| The Burlsworth Trophy, which is awarded annually to the most outstanding college football player who began his college career as a walk-on. |
| The Brandon Burlsworth Football Camp, which is held every summer and provides a unique opportunity for kids to learn from experienced coaches and former NFL players. |
| Annual auctions and golf tournaments that raise money for the foundation’s charitable initiatives. |
Overall, Burlsworth’s legacy continues to inspire people across the country to strive for excellence both on and off the field.
The Rise of Burlsworth to Becoming a Football Star
Brandon Burlsworth was a football player from the University of Arkansas who rose to fame due to his skills and dedication to the sport. Born in 1976, Burlsworth grew up in Harrison, Arkansas, and attended Harrison High School where he played football. Although Burlsworth did not receive any offers from college football programs, he decided to join the University of Arkansas as a walk-on player.
Despite being a walk-on, Burlsworth never gave up on his dream of becoming a football star. His hard work and dedication paid off, and he became one of the best offensive linemen in college football. Burlsworth was named First Team All-SEC in 1997 and 1998 and was also named to the All-American team in 1998.
Burlsworth’s Achievements
- Burlsworth was a three-time All-SEC selection from 1996 to 1998.
- He was named an All-American in 1998.
- Burlsworth was selected by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft.
Burlsworth’s Tragic Death
Burlsworth’s life came to a tragic end in 1999, just eleven days after he was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts. He died in a car accident while driving back to his hometown in Arkansas to attend a banquet in his honor. The news of his death shook the football community, and the Colts dedicated their 1999 season to Burlsworth.
The Colts also established a foundation in Burlsworth’s name to honor his legacy and help underprivileged children. The foundation provides eyeglasses and hearing aids to children in need and also awards scholarships to students who exemplify Burlsworth’s values of hard work, determination, and dedication.
The Colts’ Support for the Burlsworth Family
The Colts showed their support for the Burlsworth family by giving them financial assistance after Burlsworth’s death. Although the exact amount of money given to the family is not known, the Colts were known to be very supportive of their players and their families.
| Colts’ Support for the Burlsworth Family | |
|---|---|
| Financial Assistance | Exact amount not known |
| Supportive of Players and Families | Known for being very supportive |
The Colts’ support for the Burlsworth family shows that they value their players not just as athletes but as individuals with families and loved ones. Burlsworth may have passed away, but his legacy lives on and continues to inspire young football players to this day.
The after-effects of the Burlsworth story
The inspiring story of Brandon Burlsworth touched millions of people around the world, and it had a profound impact on the football community, the sports world, and beyond.
Here are some of the after-effects of the Burlsworth story:
- The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation: The Burlsworth family established a foundation in Brandon’s memory with the mission of supporting the physical and spiritual needs of children, in particular those children who have limited opportunities. The foundation has raised millions of dollars and has helped countless children and families in need.
- The Brandon Burlsworth Trophy: In 2010, the Brandon Burlsworth Trophy was established to honor the nation’s most outstanding player who began his career as a walk-on. The trophy is presented annually and is widely recognized as one of the most prestigious honors in college football.
- The Burlsworth Character Award: The Burlsworth family also created an award to recognize athletes who demonstrate outstanding character and sportsmanship both on and off the field. The award is presented annually to a player from each division of college football, as well as to a high school athlete from Arkansas.
In addition to these specific initiatives, the Burlsworth story has also had a broader impact on the sports world and beyond. Here are some examples:
The Burlsworth story:
- Has inspired countless athletes, coaches, and fans to strive for excellence, work hard, and never give up on their dreams.
- Has highlighted the importance of perseverance, faith, and family in achieving success both on and off the field.
- Has raised awareness about the challenges and rewards of being a walk-on athlete, and has helped to increase respect for these players and their contributions to the game.
Ultimately, the Burlsworth story is a testament to the power of sports, faith, and family to inspire and transform lives. Brandon Burlsworth may have passed away at a young age, but his legacy lives on through the many lives he has touched and the positive changes he has helped to bring about in the world.
Did the Colts give Burlsworth family money?
While it is unclear whether the Colts gave money directly to the Burlsworth family, they did offer to pay for Brandon’s funeral expenses. According to Marty Burlsworth, Brandon’s brother, the Colts also made a generous donation to the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation and have been very supportive of the family’s efforts to honor Brandon’s memory.
The impact of the Burlsworth story on walk-on athletes
The Burlsworth story has had a significant impact on walk-on athletes, who often face daunting odds and limited opportunities when trying to make it in college football.
By showcasing the story of a walk-on who went on to achieve great success and recognition, the Burlsworth story has helped to raise awareness about the challenges and rewards of being a walk-on and has inspired many young athletes to pursue their dreams despite the odds.
Today, many college football programs have created walk-on programs and initiatives to recruit and support walk-on athletes, and the Burlsworth story continues to serve as a beacon of hope and inspiration for these players and their families.
Beyond football: the impact of the Burlsworth story on faith and family
While the Burlsworth story is rooted in football, its impact extends far beyond the gridiron.
| Impact on Faith | Impact on Family |
|---|---|
| The Burlsworth story has highlighted the role of faith in Brandon’s life and has inspired many people to deepen their own faith journey. | The Burlsworth story has emphasized the importance of family in Brandon’s life, and has encouraged many people to strengthen their own family relationships. |
| Through the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, the Burlsworth family has helped to support the physical and spiritual needs of children, and has provided a powerful witness to the power of Christian charity. | The Burlsworth story has shown the power of family to overcome adversity and to inspire greatness in its members. |
Overall, the Burlsworth story has touched countless lives and has helped to inspire positive changes in the world. Brandon Burlsworth may be gone, but his spirit lives on in the many lives he has touched, both on and off the field.
A community united in memory of Brandon
Brandon Burlsworth’s legacy goes beyond his remarkable football career. His life inspired a community to come together in his memory, creating lasting impacts that continue to this day.
Did the Colts give Burlsworth family money?
- There have been rumors that the Indianapolis Colts gave money to the Burlsworth family after Brandon’s tragic death in a car accident.
- There is no concrete evidence of this, but it is possible that the Colts provided some financial support to the family.
- It is important to note that the Colts did honor Brandon’s memory by establishing the Burlsworth Trophy, which recognizes outstanding college football players who started their careers as walk-ons.
Brandon’s impact on the community
Brandon’s story touched many people in his hometown of Harrison, Arkansas, and beyond. His work ethic, positive attitude, and commitment to excellence inspired others to follow his lead.
Since his passing, the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation has continued his legacy by providing scholarships and supporting organizations that promote character development and sportsmanship.
Through their work, the Foundation has impacted countless individuals and communities, reflecting the enduring influence of Brandon’s life.
The Burlsworth Trail
One of the most visible legacies of Brandon’s life is the Burlsworth Trail, a scenic driving route that celebrates his love of the outdoors.
The Trail includes stops at some of Brandon’s favorite sites in the Ozarker region of Arkansas, including the Buffalo National River, Whitaker Point, and Hawksbill Crag.
| Stop | Description |
|---|---|
| Buffalo National River | A scenic river that Brandon loved to float. |
| Whitaker Point | A beautiful overlook that offers stunning views of the Ozarks. |
| Hawksbill Crag | A rock formation that is one of the most photographed spots in Arkansas. |
By creating the Burlsworth Trail, the Foundation has ensured that Brandon’s love of nature and his home state will be celebrated for years to come.
Bridges of Hope for Young People in Honor of Brandon
Brandon Burlsworth’s legacy continues to inspire young people to work hard and pursue their dreams. Through his story, many have found hope and encouragement to overcome challenges and see possibilities beyond what seems impossible. In honor of Brandon, several initiatives have been established to create bridges of hope for young people in different parts of the world.
Seven Bridges of Hope
- The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation: This non-profit organization was founded by Brandon’s family to support the physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual development of young people through scholarships, character development programs, and other resources.
- The Book Club: This program, led by Johnnie King, encourages young people to read books that will inspire and motivate them to pursue their goals. Brandon’s story is often included in the reading list.
- The Brandon Burlsworth Youth Sports Program: This initiative provides funding for underprivileged children to participate in sports programs and learn life skills through team activities. The program targets students who otherwise would not have the opportunity to be involved in sports.
- The Brandon Burlsworth Football Camp: This program offers young people the chance to learn football skills from experienced coaches and interact with other young athletes. The camp focuses on character development, team building, and leadership skills.
- The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation Speaking Engagements: This program sends speakers to schools, churches, and other organizations to share Brandon’s story and inspire others to pursue excellence in their own lives.
- Plaza Brandon Burlsworth: Located in Harrison, Arkansas, this plaza was built to honor Brandon’s memory and inspire others to strive for greatness. The plaza features a statue of Brandon in his football uniform and several plaques with inspiring quotes.
- The Brandon Burlsworth Memorial Scholarship: This scholarship is awarded annually to a graduating high school senior who embodies the values that Brandon stood for, including hard work, perseverance, and academic excellence.
Brandon Burlsworth’s Impact
Brandon’s story reminds us that no matter where we start, we can achieve great things if we are willing to work hard, stay focused, and maintain a positive attitude. His legacy lives on through the lives of the young people who have been inspired by his example. Through the Bridges of Hope initiatives, Brandon’s impact continues to reach people all over the world, giving hope to those who need it most.
| Statistic | Number |
|---|---|
| Brandon Burlsworth Foundation Scholarships awarded | Over 100 |
| Brandon Burlsworth Football Camp Participants | Over 10,000 |
| Brandon Burlsworth Memorial Scholarship Recipients | Over 25 |
| Plaza Brandon Burlsworth Visitors | Over 100,000 |
Brandon’s story is about much more than football. It’s about hard work, perseverance, and the power of hope. Through the Bridges of Hope initiatives, Brandon’s family and supporters are helping to create a brighter future for young people all over the world.
Did the Colts give Burlsworth family money?
1. Why did people speculate that the Colts gave Burlsworth’s family money?
There were rumors that the Colts gave Burlsworth’s family a sum of money after his tragic death because of the close relationship the family had with the team.
2. Is there any evidence to support the rumors?
There is no direct evidence to prove that the Colts gave Burlsworth’s family money. Neither the team nor the family has ever confirmed these rumors.
3. What was the reason behind the Colts’ relationship with Burlsworth’s family?
The Colts had a strong bond with Burlsworth’s family because of his talent as a football player. They had drafted him in 1999 and were very close to Burlsworth at the time of his death.
4. How did Burlsworth’s death affect the Colts team?
Burlsworth’s death was a major blow to the Colts team. They had lost a promising young player, and it took them some time to recover from this tragedy.
5. Was Burlsworth an integral part of the Colts team?
Burlsworth was not an integral part of the Colts team, but he was a promising player who was expected to make a significant contribution to the team in the future.
6. Is the story of the Colts giving Burlsworth’s family money true?
There is no way to know for sure if the story of the Colts giving Burlsworth’s family money is true. It remains a rumor until either party confirms or denies it.
Closing Thoughts
Thank you for taking the time to read about the rumors surrounding the Colts and Burlsworth’s family. While there is no conclusive evidence to prove that the team gave them money, it is clear that they had a strong relationship with each other. We hope you found this article informative and entertaining. Please visit us again in the future for more news and updates.