Brian Urlacher Chicago Bears Publications

ESPN Magazine - Chicago Bears Urlacher Alex Brown October 2006

Brian Urlacher is a player for the Chicago Bears of the National Football League. Urlacher, an alumnus of the University of New Mexico, is a six-time Pro Bowl player and has established himself as one of the NFL's most productive linebackers. He is regarded as one of the best defensive players in the NFL, winning the NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year Award in 2000 and the NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award in 2005, becoming only the fifth player in NFL history to win both awards. During the 2000 NFL Draft, Urlacher was selected by the Chicago Bears with the ninth pick in the first round. Following his successful rookie season, Urlacher was able to gain popularity with the fans. Undoubtedly, he is still one of the most popular current Chicago Bears players. Bears fans consider Urlacher to be one of the "Monsters of the Midway", a "Valhalla" of Bears' icons including Dick Butkus, Bill George, and "Samurai" Mike Singletary. On a national level, Urlacher's jersey sales have rivaled those of other NFL icons, such as Michael Vick and Brett Favre. Football fans across the nation have also voted Urlacher into six Pro Bowls. Urlacher's teammates and coaches have also praised his character and athletic ability.