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, renowned for his 13-season career with the Chicago Bears in the NFL. Prior to his professional career, Urlacher played college football for the New Mexico Lobos, where he excelled and achieved consensus All-American recognition in his senior year. The Bears drafted him ninth overall in the 2000 NFL Draft, marking the beginning of his highly successful tenure with the team.

Sections (4)

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

1995: Won State Championship

In 1995, Brian Urlacher led Lovington High School Wildcats to an undefeated 14-0 season, winning the division 3-A state championship.

1999: Finalist for Jim Thorpe Award

In 1999, Brian Urlacher was a finalist for the Jim Thorpe Award and finished twelfth on the Heisman Trophy ballot.

2000: Named Defensive Rookie of the Year

In 2000, Brian Urlacher led the Bears with 124 tackles and eight sacks, surpassing the franchise's previous rookie records. He was named the Defensive Rookie of the Year by news organizations such as the Associated Press and The Sporting News.

2000: Male Athlete of the Year Award

In 2000, Brian Urlacher was awarded the Male Athlete of the Year Award.

2001: Played in Pro Bowl

In 2001, Brian Urlacher played in the Pro Bowl as an alternate middle linebacker.

2001: Best Finish Since 2001

In 2005, Urlacher led the Bears to an 11-5 record, marking their best finish since 2001.

2005: Urlacher wins NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award

Brian Urlacher won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award for the 2005 season.

2005: NFL Defensive Player of the Year

In 2005, Brian Urlacher won the NFL Defensive Player of the Year Award.

2006: Halftime Ceremony Honoring Success

In 2006, a special halftime ceremony was held to honor Brian Urlacher's success.

2006: NFC Championship

In 2006, the Bears won the NFC Championship against the New Orleans Saints 39–14, but lost Super Bowl XLI to the Indianapolis Colts 29–17. Urlacher recorded 19 tackles and a forced fumble against the Arizona Cardinals.

2007: Pro Bowl Selection

In 2007, Brian Urlacher was elected to the 2007 Pro Bowl.

2010: Playoffs

In the 2010 NFL season, with Julius Peppers' help, 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: NFC Defensive Player

Brian Urlacher was recognized as the NFC Defensive Player of the Month during December/January in 2011.

2012: Urlacher wins Ed Block Courage Award, Models New Uniforms

In 2012, Brian Urlacher won the Ed Block Courage Award for sportsmanship and courage. During his acceptance speech, he thanked the Bears. In 2012, he also modeled the new Nike uniforms after Nike took over as the NFL supplier from Reebok.

November 9, 2013: Jersey Retired

On November 9, 2013, the University of New Mexico retired Brian Urlacher's No. 44 jersey during halftime of the game against Air Force.

November 21, 2017: Urlacher Named Pro Football Hall of Fame Semi-Finalist

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