Bears Blitz

Brian Urlacher: Bears Rally Behind Leader as He Grieves Loss of Mother

Published by Brian Mazique on September 15, 2011
Article Source: Bleacher Report - Chicago Bears

Coming off an NFC Defensive Player of the Week performance in Week 1 against the Atlanta Falcons, Brian Urlacher received some tragic news concerning his family. His mother, Lavoyda, passed away at her home in Texas earlier this week.

Urlacher’s mom was only 51 and her death was unexpected. This is surely going to be an emotional game for Urlacher this Sunday when the team takes on the New Orleans Saints.

I personally sympathize with him having dealt with the same situation in 2005. There is only one person you’ve literally known every second of your life and that is your mother—needless to say it’s tough.

As tragic as it is, obviously, the situation is not without precedence. Brett Favre, of course, lost his father prior to a Monday night game against the Oakland Raiders but played inspired football, leading his team to victory with 399 yards passing and four TDs.

Will Urlacher respond in a similar way in his time of grief? That remains to be seen, but he is definitely not without support from the Bears’ coaching staff and players.

Lovie Smith, who himself lost his mother earlier this year, had this to say concerning Urlacher, “It was out of season when I went through it, so I can’t tell you what Brian is going through right now.” He went on to say, “But I know sometimes when you’re going through tough times, the best thing for you to do is get back to something you like doing, and football is very important to Brian.”

His teammates have also been very supportive. Jay Cutler tweeted his condolences and Roy Williams offered this perspective: “That’s going to be tough for our football team [if Urlacher doesn’t play Sunday], but we’re understanding. Whoever takes his spot [if necessary] will play well.”

It is my belief that Urlacher will play on Sunday. Citing two sources, Chicago Tribune reporter David Haugh is reporting Urlacher returned to practice today. The Bears are handling this issue with class, allowing Urlacher to take his time and return when he is ready.

That said, I expect an emotionally-charged defensive performance as the Bears continue their support for their emotionally wounded star.