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Mother of Razorback football legend Brandon Burlsworth has died

The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation announced Barbara Burlsworth's passing on Oct. 31, 2024.

ARKANSAS, USA — Barbara Burlsworth, the mother of former Razorback and Harrison native Brandon Burlsworth, has passed away at the age of 84. 

The Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, which is run by the Burlsworth family, announced Barbara's passing on their X account

Brandon was a former Razorback football player who's regarded in sports history as one of the greatest to ever hit the gridiron. He surpassed all odds beginning his career as a walk-on for the Razorbacks, eventually becoming an All-American. 

After his career with the Razorbacks, which spanned from 1994 to 1998, he was invited to the NFL Combine. It was there where he proved his talent, topping all linemen with a 4.88 40-yard dash, and was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts during the third round — proving anything is possible with focus and determination. 

Soon after, tragedy struck the small community of Harrison. Just 11 days after the NFL draft, on April 28, 1999, Brandon was headed home from the University of Arkansas to attend church with his mom. Just 15 minutes from home he was involved in a car crash, dying at the age of 22.  

Brandon’s influence did not stop, even after life. In Brandon's honor, his family began the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation to "support the physical and spiritual needs of children, in particular those who have limited opportunities." 

To this day, he is still ingrained in his community and the people he met in life. His story was even brought to life in the 2016 feature film "Greater." 

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