Brandon Burlsworth

Brandon Burlsworth was an American college football offensive lineman best known for walking on to the Arkansas Razorbacks and developing into an All-American.

Brandon Burlsworth was an American college football offensive lineman who walked on to the Arkansas Razorbacks and became an All-American. He was drafted by the Indianapolis Colts in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft but died in a car accident 11 days later, before he could play in the National Football League.

Early life and high school

Burlsworth was born in Harrison, Arkansas, and attended Harrison High School. He was regarded as a recruited walk-on prospect who later became one of the most celebrated walk-ons in college football.

College career

He played offensive line for the Arkansas Razorbacks from 1995 to 1998. During that span, he earned a scholarship, became a team leader, and received All-SEC and All-American honors.

Professional career and death

The Indianapolis Colts selected Burlsworth in the third round of the 1999 NFL Draft. He died in an automobile accident shortly afterward, before he could begin his NFL career.

Legacy

After his death, his family helped establish the Brandon Burlsworth Foundation, which supports children and related community programs. In 2010, the Burlsworth Trophy was created to honor the most outstanding college football player who began as a walk-on.

Media portrayals

Burlsworth’s life was the subject of the 2016 film Greater and earlier biography projects, reflecting his status as one of college football’s best-known walk-on success stories.