Former NFL Player Matt Ulrich Dies at 41; Won Super Bowl with Colts
Matthew Ulrich cause of death: Former NFL offensive lineman Matt Ulrich, who won Super Bowl XLI with the Indianapolis Colts, has died at the age of 41. The cause of death has not been announced.
Colts Owner Announces Ulrich’s Passing
Jim Irsay, owner of the Colts, announced Ulrich’s passing on Wednesday. “I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Matt Ulrich,” Irsay said. “Matt was with us only two seasons, but left his mark on many. Great guy, I hear he was a great dad – and he was a Super Bowl champ. My prayers to his family.”
Chicago Native Played at Northwestern
Born in the Chicago area, Ulrich started playing football in high school. He shined as an offensive lineman and played college football for the Northwestern Wildcats in his hometown. He was a three-time Iron Cat and eventually became a captain on the 2004 Northwestern team.
Went Undrafted but Made Colts Roster
After going undrafted out of Northwestern in 2005, Ulrich signed with the Colts as an undrafted free agent. He made the 53-man roster out of training camp and appeared in 10 games as an offensive guard in his rookie season.
Recalls Beating Patriots as Career Highlight
In 2019, Ulrich reflected on defeating the New England Patriots in the 2006 AFC Championship game en route to the Super Bowl. “One of the best days outside the four of my four children’s births and my wedding,” he told Montana Sports. “One of the best days of my life was just knowing we punched the ticket to the Super Bowl.”
Won Super Bowl XLI with Colts
Ulrich’s final NFL game came on February 4, 2007 when the Colts defeated the Chicago Bears 29-17 in Super Bowl XLI. “I had to remind myself to take one moment for myself,” Ulrich recalled. “It was good advice I got from someone that if you do win it, take that last moment to look back at the tunnel and just look at the scoreboard, look at the field and just know you’re at the pinnacle of sports.”
Post-NFL Career Focused on Player Health
After retiring from the NFL, Ulrich served as a player advisor for Harvard’s Football Players Health Study and was a chief growth office and partner for Profitable Ideas Exchange. He was also listed as a head coach for Mountain Edge Athletics in Bozeman, Montana at the time of his death.
Leaves Behind Wife, Four Sons
Matt Ulrich leaves behind his wife and their four sons. The NFL community is mourning the loss of a former player, Super Bowl champion and family man gone too soon at the age of 41. Ulrich made a lasting impact during his brief NFL career and post-retirement work.
Twitter: https://twitter.com/JimIrsay/status/1722293700615622940
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