In heartbreaking news, former Syracuse football player Rex Culpepper has tragically passed away at 28 due to injuries from a dirt biking accident in Georgia.
Culpepper's fiancée, Savanna, shared a heartfelt tribute on social media, capturing the depth of their bond. She reflected on their six years together, noting how they embraced every moment, learned new skills, traveled, and lived life to the fullest.
Rex, she said, was a soulmate she never expected to lose so soon. Her words painted a picture of a man who was not only a talented athlete but also a lawyer, mechanic, musician, chef, and more.
He was, in her eyes, "one in a billion."
Rex's time with the Syracuse Orange spanned five years, during which he played in 30 games as a quarterback. He completed 139 out of 266 passes for 1,546 yards, with 11 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.
His freshman year in 2017 saw the team achieve a 10-3 record. Ever the team player, Rex switched to tight end in 2018 before returning to quarterback in 2019.
In the challenging COVID-affected 2020 season, he threw for 1,028 yards over 10 games.
Rex's resilience shone through when he bravely overcame testicular cancer while at Syracuse, earning him the inaugural Jim DaRin Award for courage.
His father, Brad Culpepper, had a notable nine-year NFL career with the Vikings, Buccaneers, and Bears, recording 34 sacks and making three playoff appearances.
The Syracuse community, along with those who knew and loved Rex, mourns the loss of a remarkable individual whose spirit and legacy will not be forgotten.