Brian Urlacher Takes Indefinite Leave From Chicago Bears after Mother's Death (VIDEO)

Chicago Bears LB Brian Urlacher has left the team indefinitely to be with his family after his mother, Lavoyda Lenard, died unexpectedly at her Texas home.

“My mother, Lavoyda, unexpectedly passed away Monday at her home in Texas,” Urlacher said in a statement. “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.”

Lenard was 51 and, at this time, there is no evidence of foul play.

“Our thoughts and prayers going out to Brian and his family” tweeted Bears QB Jay Cutler.

Urlacher’s status for Sunday’s game against the New Orleans Saints is uncertain.

“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 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’s teammates walked the line between worrying about their team’s fate without the linebacker and worrying about their friend.

Story Continues Below...

“That’s going to be tough for our football team (if Urlacher doesn’t play Sunday), but we’re understanding,” Bears receiver Roy Williams said. “Whoever takes his spot (if necessary) will play well.

“My thoughts and prayers go out to him and his family. He is the emotional leader of the football team, so we have his back.”

Urlacher has played all 13 seasons in Chicago and is one of the more popular players in the Bears’ locker room.