Childhood and Education Journey of Brian Urlacher in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: June 21, 2025

How education and upbringing influenced the life of Brian Urlacher. A timeline of key moments.

Brian Urlacher is a retired American football linebacker who spent his entire 13-season NFL career with the Chicago Bears. A standout college player for the New Mexico Lobos, he was drafted ninth overall by the Bears in 2000. Urlacher quickly became a cornerstone of the Bears' defense, known for his exceptional athleticism, intelligence, and leadership. He earned numerous accolades, including NFL Defensive Player of the Year, and was an eight-time Pro Bowl selection. Urlacher is widely regarded as one of the greatest linebackers in NFL history and was inducted into the Pro Football Hall of Fame.

Sections (4)

Full Timeline Early Life & Education Career & Achievements Success & Recognition

May 25, 1978: Brian Urlacher's Birth

On May 25, 1978, Brian Urlacher was born in Pasco, Washington. He later became a professional football linebacker.

Others born on this day/year

1995: Won State Championship

In 1995, Brian Urlacher led Lovington High School to an undefeated season and a division 3-A state championship.

1996: Graduated from Lovington High School

In 1996, Brian Urlacher graduated from Lovington High School.

1997: Insight.com Bowl

In 1997, Brian Urlacher's team, the New Mexico Lobos, made a trip to the Insight.com Bowl.

2000: Drafted by the Chicago Bears

In 2000, Brian Urlacher was drafted ninth overall by the Chicago Bears in the NFL draft, after playing college football for the New Mexico Lobos.

2001: Bears' Winning Season

In 2001, the Bears had a winning season, but this was followed by three straight losing seasons.

May 15, 2002: Appearance on According to Jim

On May 15, 2002, Brian Urlacher appeared as himself in an episode of According to Jim titled "No Surprises".

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May 2002: Appearance on According to Jim

In May 2002, Brian Urlacher appeared as himself in an episode of According to Jim.

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2002: Appearance on Wheel of Fortune

In 2002, Brian Urlacher appeared on the game show Wheel of Fortune and won over $47,000 for charity.

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June 2005: Paternity Suit Filed

In June 2005, Brian Urlacher filed suit to establish paternity of his son Kennedy. Genetic testing later confirmed that he is Kennedy's father, with Tyna Robertson as the mother. They maintain joint custody.

2007: Testimony for Tank Johnson

In 2007, Brian Urlacher was called upon by former teammate Tank Johnson to testify during one of his court hearings.

2011: Death of Mother

In 2011, Brian Urlacher's mother, Lavoyda Lenard Urlacher, died, and he was granted temporary leave from the team.

April 2012: Began Dating Jenny McCarthy

In April 2012, Brian Urlacher began dating model and actress Jenny McCarthy.

August 2012: Ended Relationship with Jenny McCarthy

In August 2012, Jenny McCarthy announced that she and Brian Urlacher had ended their relationship.

2013: Brother Elected Mayor

In 2013, Brian Urlacher's younger brother, Casey, who had a brief career in the Arena Football League, was elected mayor of Mettawa, Illinois.

December 2014: Participates in USO Chairman's Holiday Tour

In December 2014, Brian Urlacher participated in the USO Chairman's Holiday tour, providing entertainment to US troops in five countries.

2014: Hair Transplant and Spokesman Role

In 2014, Brian Urlacher underwent a hair transplant surgery performed by RESTORE Hair and became a spokesman for the clinic. He also later sued a Florida-based hair transplant clinic for using his image without consent.

March 13, 2016: Marriage to Jennipher Frost

On March 13, 2016, Brian Urlacher married Jennipher Frost, a former contestant on America's Next Top Model.

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2017: Custody Appeal

In 2017, Brian Urlacher appealed to a Cook County court to remove Kennedy from Tyna Robertson's custody after her husband was shot and killed in their residence.

August 27, 2020: Social Media Controversy

On August 27, 2020, Brian Urlacher criticized NBA players for boycotting playoff games and "liked" a post supporting Kyle Rittenhouse. The Bears responded that the posts did not reflect the organization's values.