Former Syracuse Quarterback Rex Culpepper killed in a dirt bike accident

Former Rex Culpepper, a quarterback who played for the Syracuse Orange football, has passed away at the age of 28, leaving behind a legacy of resilience, leadership, and courage that inspired teammates and fans alike. The former Plant High School and Syracuse quarterback Rex Culpepper died as the result of injuries suffered in a dirt bike accident Saturday in Georgia.

The heartbreaking news was shared publicly by his fiancée, Savanna, who posted an emotional tribute on social media reflecting on the six years they spent together.

She wrote that losing Rex after such a short time together was unimaginable, describing him as her soulmate and someone who lived life fully every single day. According to her message, the couple spent their years together constantly exploring new hobbies, learning new skills, and traveling, rarely spending time apart.

Savanna described Culpepper as someone who could seemingly do anything — a “lawyer, mechanic, musician, chef, athlete, nerd… and lover.” She added that knowing him changed her life forever and that the void left behind by his passing may never truly be filled. Despite the heartbreak, she said seeing how deeply he was loved by others brought her comfort as she continues to honor the passions and hobbies they shared.

Culpepper’s football journey at Syracuse was defined by perseverance and selflessness. He spent five years with the program from 2016 to 2020, appearing in 30 games during his collegiate career. Primarily a quarterback, he completed 139 of 266 passes for 1,546 yards, throwing 11 touchdowns and 11 interceptions.

During the 2017 season, Syracuse finished 10–3 while Culpepper attempted 75 passes. Known as a team-first player, he made a position switch to tight end in 2018 before returning to quarterback in 2019. In the pandemic-shortened 2020 season, he appeared in 10 games and threw for 1,028 yards.

Beyond the field, Culpepper became a symbol of courage. While a student-athlete at Syracuse, he battled and overcame testicular cancer, an experience that earned him the program’s first Jim DaRin Courage Award.

Football was deeply rooted in the Culpepper family. His father, Brad Culpepper, enjoyed a nine-year NFL career with the Minnesota Vikings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers, and Chicago Bears. During his professional career, Brad started 83 games, recorded 34 sacks, and recovered three fumbles while helping lead his teams to the playoffs three times.

Rex Culpepper’s life was marked by determination, resilience, and the ability to inspire those around him. While his life ended far too soon, his story — from beating cancer to embracing every moment with those he loved — will continue to resonate with the Syracuse community and the broader football world.