Former Syracuse QB Rex Culpepper dies at 28 after dirt bike accident

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Rex Culpepper, a former Syracuse University quarterback, has died at the age of 28 following injuries sustained in a dirt bike accident in Georgia. Culpepper played for Syracuse from 2016 to 2020, appearing in 24 games during his career. He was known for his battle with testicular cancer, which he was diagnosed with in 2018 and overcame after months of chemotherapy.

Why it matters

Culpepper's story was one of perseverance and courage, as he continued to be involved with the Syracuse football program even during his cancer treatment. His passing is a tragic loss for the college football community, especially for those who followed his inspiring journey.

The details

Culpepper, who was primarily a backup quarterback at Syracuse, also saw time at tight end as a sophomore in 2018. He threw for 1,546 yards and 11 touchdowns while completing 52% of his passes during his college career. Culpepper was a two-time team captain at Plant High School in Tampa, Florida, where he developed into one of the top quarterback prospects in the state.

• Culpepper was diagnosed with testicular cancer in March 2018.
• He underwent months of chemotherapy before being declared cancer-free in June 2018.
• Culpepper returned to game action later in the 2018 season and was honored with Syracuse's Jim DaRin Courage Award.
• Culpepper died on Saturday, March 17, 2026, following a dirt bike accident in Georgia.