Lawman at bike crash scene

The former quarterback succumbed to injuries after beating cancer.

Former Syracuse quarterback Rex Culpepper has passed away at the age of 28 after suffering injuries in a dirt bike accident in Georgia.

Culpepper, the son of former NFL defensive tackle Brad Culpepper, played for the Orange from 2016 to 2020. While he spent most of his career as a backup, he got bumped up to QB1 on a few occasions.

The school announced his passing via social media on Monday.

“Rex lived his life with endless passion, having overcome cancer at the age of 20 while playing for the Orange,” they wrote in a statement. “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.”

The former QB had his best season in his senior year, starting in half of his 10 appearances. He completed 94 of 190 passes for 1,028 yards and nine touchdowns.

The former QB also played at tight end for the second half of the 2017 season.

Rex’s career took a downturn after doctors diagnosed him with testicular cancer in March of 2018.

While he played in six games, he didn’t register any statistics.

Rex Culpepper Beat Cancer In A Few Months

Rex Culpepper making throwSouth Bend, Indiana, USA; Syracuse Orange quarterback Rex Culpepper (17) throws (Matt Cashore-USA TODAY Sports)
Culpepper underwent chemotherapy yet played in the program’s spring game while taking treatment, even throwing a touchdown. He was declared cancer-free in June of 2018.

He received a FWAA Courage Award nomination following his ordeal.

Rex’s father played for the Minnesota Vikings, Tampa Bay Buccaneers and Chicago Bears. His NFL career lasted nine seasons.

His brother, Judge, was also a defensive tackle. He played for Penn State and Toledo.

Rex became a lawyer after college, passing the bar in 2024.

TPS extends condolences to Rex’s family, friends and loved ones.

May he rest in peace.