Georgia Tech's defensive unit may be without one of its most counted on contributors as it appears that a neck injury could end the career of Yellow Jackets' linebacker Julian Burnett. Head coach Paul Johnson confirmed the news following Tech's opening spring practice.

"He's a heck of a competitor and a good football player, but there's bigger things in life than football," Johnson said. "You've got to be safe."

Burnett suffered the injury against Utah in the Sun Bowl at the end of the 2011 season. Johnson also indicated that Burnett would be placed on a medical scholarship which means he will be ineligible to play in the upcoming season. He is expected to remain with the team and be involved in some capacity.

Burnett led the Yellow Jackets in tackles during the 2011 season and was a second-team All-ACC selection.

For more on Jackets football, visit Georgia Tech blog From The Rumble Seat, plus SB Nation Atlanta.