Chicago Bears linebacker and face of the franchise Brian Urlacher left the team Tuesday afternoon to be with his family after his mother, Lavoyda Lenard, died at her home in Mount Pleasant, Texas. She was 51 years old.
Urlacher’s statement reads:
“My mother, Lavoyda, unexpectedly passed away Monday at her home in Texas. My first priority right now is to be with my family as we mourn her loss and make the arrangements to lay her to rest. This is a very difficult and emotional time for us and I sincerely ask that you respect our privacy. Thank you.”
“Our thoughts and prayers going out to Brian and his family” Bears qb Jay Cutler tweeted.
Urlacher’s status for Sunday’s game vs the New Orleans Saints is in doubt.
“It was out of season when I went through it, so I can’t tell you what Brian is going through right now,” said coach Lovie Smith, who lost his mother Mae earlier this year. “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.”
Urlacher has spent his entire 12 year career with the Bears and is one of the most popular players in Chicago history.
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