Former Michigan football player Obi Ezeh dead at 36

Former Michigan Wolverines football player Obi Ezeh has passed away at the age of 36, as announced by his mother and the school on May 5, 2024.

“We are saddened to hear about the passing of former Wolverine linebacker Obi Ezeh,” Michigan football shared on Twitter. “Our prayers go out to his family, friends, and former teammates. May he rest in peace.”

The exact circumstances surrounding Ezeh’s death have not been disclosed.

In a heartfelt tribute, Ezeh’s mother expressed her love for her son in a Facebook post. “My very own! My Obi. My #2. My heart. My father’s heart. My quiet giant. Grandchild of an elephant. Journey well to your maker,” she wrote. “My Obinna Ezeh, you will always be in my heart, my beloved son.”

Ezeh had a notable career with the Wolverines, spanning five seasons, including 10 starts and 13 total appearances in his second season after a redshirt year.

Arguably, Ezeh’s best collegiate year was the following season when he led the team with 98 tackles in 12 starts at middle linebacker, earning All-Big Ten honorable mention from both coaches and media.

During his redshirt junior year, Ezeh was named a Butkus Award semifinalist, showcasing his defensive prowess with 69 tackles, five for a loss, two breakups, and a fumble recovery.

Throughout his time at Michigan, Ezeh accumulated 293 tackles, 19.5 tackles for loss, three sacks, and two interceptions across 49 appearances.

Under the leadership of coaches Lloyd Carr and Rich Rodriguez, Michigan achieved a record of 35-28 during Ezeh’s tenure with the program.

Following his college career, Ezeh signed with the Washington Redskins as an undrafted free agent, although he was waived several weeks after joining the team.