Matt Ulrich’s death: How did the ex-Super Bowl champion die at 41?

Ulrich played 2 seasons with the Colts and won a Super Bowl.

Matt Ulrich’s death: How did the ex-Super Bowl champion die at 41?

Indianapolis Colts safety Matt Ulrich (Image via Indianapolis Colts)

Former NFL safety Matt Ulrich has passed away at the age of 41. He was part of the Indianapolis Colts team that won the 2005 Super Bowl. Colts owner Jim Irsay mourned his former player’s death in a very heartfelt speech.

The news of the passing of Ulrich broke yesterday and has left the world of football sad. Not more so than Irsay himself, who just a few days ago was seen dancing to his side’s victory over the Carolina Panthers.

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Just five days later, he was heartbroken by the unexpected and sad news: Irsay said:

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I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Matt Ulrich. Matt was with us only two seasons, but left his mark on many.

The veteran owner revealed that he knew Matt to be a good man:

Great guy. I hear he was a great dad, and he was a Super Bowl champ. My prayers are with his family.

According to The Llanelli Herald, a Facebook post first confirmed the tragic news. The post read: 

It was through the power of social media that the word of Matt Ulrich’s passing spread. Aden McDonnell’s [Facebook] post served not only as a confirmation but also as a space for collective mourning and remembrance.

How did Matt Ulrich die?

Well, that’s the big question. As of yet, there’s no confirmation as to how the former NFL guard died. Neither Irsay spoke on the matter, nor has the family released any statement. For the moment, it remains unclear.

Matt Ulrich’s death: How did the ex-Super Bowl champion die at 41? Jim Irsay
Matt Ulrich with the 2005 Super Bowl (Image via Getty Images)

Matt Ulrich was in Streamwood, Illinois, and went to the local Streamwood High. Later, he attended North Western University and played for the Wildcats. The Colts signed him as an undrafted free agent in 2005. He was with Indie for two seasons and started a total of 10 games.

According to FOX News, Ulrich lived a fulfilling life:

Keeping up with my four pre-teen sons is the highlight of my life and keeps me on my toes. I also invest my time in helping young athletes. This is one of my true passions.

After leaving the NFL, he cofounded DexaFit. It’s a company that utilizes technology to give people an analysis of their bodies. Ulrich was the chief growth officer and partner of Profitable Ideas Exchange. His primary role was to help accelerate the growth of the business and broaden its horizons.

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