Brian Urlacher's Success and Achievements in Timeline

A closer look at the biggest achievements of Brian Urlacher. Awards, milestones, and records that define success.

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

1995: Won State Championship

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

1999: Finalist for Jim Thorpe Award

In 1999, Brian Urlacher was a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award.

2000: Male Athlete of the Year Award

In 2000, Brian Urlacher received the Male Athlete of the Year Award from the University of New Mexico.

2000: Rookie Defensive Player of the Year

In 2000, Brian Urlacher won the league's Rookie Defensive Player of the Month in October, led the Bears with 124 tackles and eight sacks, and was named Defensive Rookie of the Year by multiple news organizations.

2001: Successful 2001 Season

In 2001, Brian Urlacher had a successful season, contributing to the Chicago Bears winning 13 games and being nominated for the NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award.

2001: Selected to Pro Bowl

In 2001, Brian Urlacher was voted to play at the Pro Bowl as an alternate middle linebacker, following his successful rookie campaign.

2005: NFL Defensive Player of the Year

In 2005, Brian Urlacher was named NFL Defensive Player of the Year.

2006: NFC Champions

In 2006, the Chicago Bears finished with a 13-3 record, won the NFC Championship against the New Orleans Saints, but lost Super Bowl XLI to the Indianapolis Colts. Brian Urlacher earned consideration for the League's Defensive Player of the Year award.

2006: Special Halftime Ceremony

In 2006, the University of New Mexico held a special halftime ceremony to honor Brian Urlacher's success.

2007: Elected to 2007 Pro Bowl

In 2006, Brian Urlacher was elected to the 2007 Pro Bowl while also earning consideration for the League's Defensive Player of the Year award.

2010: Recovery from Injury

After recovering from a wrist injury, Brian Urlacher stated he felt more powerful during the 2010 offseason.

2010: NFC North Champions

In 2010, Brian Urlacher and the Bears improved to an 11-5 record, winning the NFC North and earning a first-round bye for the 2011 playoffs.

2011: Ranked 49th in NFL Top 100

In 2010, Brian Urlacher was ranked 49th by his fellow players on the NFL Top 100 Players of 2011.

2012: Ed Block Courage Award

In 2012, Brian Urlacher won the Ed Block Courage Award for sportsmanship and courage, thanking the Bears for their support after his mother's death. Also in 2012, he intercepted Matt Hasselbeck and returned it for a touchdown and later sustained a hamstring injury. Nike took over from Reebok as the NFL supplier and Urlacher modeled the new uniforms.

November 9, 2013: Jersey Retired

On November 9, 2013, the University of New Mexico retired Brian Urlacher's No. 44 jersey.

November 21, 2017: Hall of Fame Nomination

On November 21, 2017, Brian Urlacher was announced as one of 27 semi-finalists for the 2018 Pro Football Hall of Fame class, his first year of eligibility.