Brian Urlacher

Chicago Bears legend and Hall of Fame linebacker

Brian Urlacher (born May 25, 1978) is an American former professional football linebacker who played in the National Football League (NFL) for 13 seasons with the Chicago Bears. He played college football for the New Mexico Lobos, earning consensus All-American honors and winning MW Player of the Year in 1999. He was selected ninth overall by the Bears in the 2000 NFL draft.

Quick Facts

Position: Linebacker
Born: 25 May 1978
Birthplace: Pasco, Washington, U.S.
High school: Lovington (Lovington, New Mexico)
College: New Mexico (1996–1999)
Draft year: 2000
Draft round: 1
Draft pick: 9

Lore & Background

Urlacher quickly established himself as one of the NFL's most productive defensive players, winning the NFL Rookie of the Year Award. During his career, he was selected to eight Pro Bowls, recognized as a first-team All-Pro four times, and won NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2005. He was inducted to the College Football Hall of Fame in 2017 and the Pro Football Hall of Fame in 2018.

Reader's Guide

Urlacher played for the Chicago Bears from 2000 through 2012. He was a middle linebacker and won NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2005. He led the Bears to an 11–5 record in 2005 and was a key playmaker throughout his career.