Brian Urlacher

Born in rural Washington and later raised in New Mexico, Brian Urlacher was initially overlooked for a scholarship despite his standout performances on the local high school football fields. Unfazed, Urlacher enrolled at the University of New Mexico, where he received consensus All-American honors and finished his college career with 442 tackles, three interceptions, 11 sacks, and 11 forced fumbles. His exceptional performance resulted in his jersey number, 44, being retired by the university. He was also inducted into the University of New Mexico Athletics Hall of Honor and the College Football Hall of Fame in 2017.

Urlacher was recognized as a highly talented prospect for the 2000 NFL draft. He was selected as the ninth overall pick by the Chicago Bears, with whom he spent his entire 13-season-long professional career. Despite a shaky start where he lost his starting position to Rosevelt Colvin, Urlacher quickly regained the spot and flourished as a middle linebacker. He won the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year award in 2000, followed by the NFL Defensive Player of the Year award in 2005. His career statistics include 1,361 tackles, 41.5 sacks, 22 interceptions, 2 touchdowns, and 78 pass deflections. He was also selected to eight Pro Bowls and was recognized as a first-team All-Pro four times. Urlacher announced his retirement in 2013.

Off the field, Urlacher has been involved in various activities. He has appeared on TV programs like "Wheel of Fortune" and "According to Jim," taken part in commercials for brands such as McDonald's and Nike, and even participated in a pay-per-view event for the NWA-TNA promotion. He also joined Fox Sports 1 as an analyst on Fox Football Daily post-retirement but later resigned from the role. Nevertheless, colleagues, coaches, friends, and family describe Urlacher as a devoted family man who is humble and fun-loving. His fervent work ethic, stemming from his humble beginnings, has remained with him throughout his life, distinguishing him both on and off the field.