Former Syracuse QB Rex Culpepper, son of ex-NFL star, dies at 28

Culpepper overcame testicular cancer while playing for the Orange before pursuing a law career in Florida.

Mar. 17, 2026 at 4:11am

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Rex Culpepper, a former backup quarterback for the Syracuse Orange football team, died in a dirt biking accident in Georgia on Saturday at the age of 28. Culpepper, the son of ex-NFL defensive tackle Brad Culpepper, played for Syracuse from 2016 to 2020 and was diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2018 before being declared cancer-free later that year.

Why it matters

Culpepper's story highlights the challenges and resilience of student-athletes, as he overcame a serious health diagnosis to continue playing for Syracuse. His passing is a tragic loss for the university's football program and the broader community.

The details

Culpepper spent most of his college career as a backup quarterback but was promoted to starter numerous times. His senior year in 2020 was his best statistically, as he appeared in 10 games (five starts) and completed 94 of 190 passes for 1,028 yards and nine touchdowns. After being diagnosed with testicular cancer in 2018, Culpepper underwent chemotherapy but still managed to play in Syracuse's spring game that year, throwing a late touchdown pass in the exhibition.

  • Culpepper was diagnosed with testicular cancer in March 2018.
  • He was declared cancer-free by June 2018.
  • Culpepper died in a dirt biking accident in Georgia on Saturday, March 15, 2026.

The players

Rex Culpepper

A former backup quarterback for the Syracuse Orange football team who overcame testicular cancer and later became a lawyer in Florida.

Brad Culpepper

Rex Culpepper's father, who played defensive tackle for the Minnesota Vikings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Chicago Bears over a nine-year NFL career from 1992 to 2000.

Judge Culpepper

Rex Culpepper's brother, who played defensive tackle for Penn State and had a brief stint at Toledo.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“'Rex lived his life with endless passion, having overcome cancer at the age of 20 while playing for the Orange. Appearing in 30 games, Rex played football as fiercely as he loved life. Our hearts are with the Culpepper family and all those who loved him.'”

— Syracuse University (X)

The takeaway

Culpepper's story serves as an inspiration, demonstrating the resilience and determination of student-athletes who face significant health challenges. His passing is a tragic loss for the Syracuse community and a reminder of the fragility of life, but his legacy of perseverance and passion for the game will continue to inspire others.