Purdue tight end George Burhenn overcomes major injuries, inspired by father’s ALS battle WEST LAFAYETTE, Ind. (WISH) — Former Mt. Vernon football star George Burhenn just finished the best spring season he’s had with the Purdue Boilermakers — a sigh of relief after the adversity he’s faced the last three years.  After winning the state championship with the Marauders in 2021, Burhenn began his Boilermaker career in 2023. His freshman season in West Lafayette was highlighted by his performance against Indiana in the season finale, logging 74 yards off five catches plus a touchdown. Then injuries derailed his promising assent. A broken foot cost him most of his sophomore season. Then year, Burhenn sustained a leg injury during spring practices that needed surgery five days later. After rehabbing from that, Burhenn then suffered a season-ending broken arm in the game against Notre Dame in September. The injuries kept piling up, but Burhenn’s determination never wavered. “It’s definitely tough because every time I go through an injury, it’s like, ‘Alright, I got to get to being healthy again.’ Then it’s smooth sailing. And then it happens again,” Burhenn said. “Just really take it day by day. There’s definitely some dark days, but it’s just a part of the journey with that.” Burhenn’s love for football is what keeps bringing him back. “I was the one that asked to play football, and it just kind of happens,” Burhenn said. “It’s just the hand that I was dealt, and I have to put my best foot forward.” The journey hasn’t been easy for Burhenn or his family. In 2023, his father Brian was diagnosed with ALS. Brian’s constant optimism the last three years has motivated George through his own battles. “He inspires me so much every day,” Burhenn said. “Just his positive mindset every day just blows me away, and everybody else that knows him blows them away, too. Just every day wakes up with a good attitude.” Brian’s struggles has helped put George’s football injuries into perspective, as well. “He told me one time, ‘You know, I’d rather break my ankle every day than to have ALS.’ That was a big eye opener for me,” Burhenn said. “It’s like, my situation’s not that bad. I’m playing at Purdue in front of my family every weekend. My situation’s nothing compared to his.” Burhenn and that constant positive attitude will be back out on the field here at Ross-Ade Stadium come September as the Boilers top tight end. His head coach Barry Odom knows he’ll be a major asset once fully healthy. “Everyone within our building knows what George has been through and knows what he’s overcome, what a great teammate he is and competitor he is,” Odom said. “He’s a mismatch nightmare for some people and that’s great to have on our sideline.” Burhenn’s been an inspiration to his Purdue teammates. “Seeing the way he works, it’s really motivational just to see your teammate doing that just to be on the field with you guys,” Boilers sophomore quarterback Ryan Browne said. Burhenn’s message for those going through difficult times is simple. “There’s always light at the end of the tunnel,” Burhenn said. “Definitely dark days, but God’s there for you and there will always be a better day than the previous one.” Burhenn’s hoping for many brighter days ahead. ...read more read less