Former University of Michigan linebacker Obi Ezeh has died at the age of 36.
His mother announced his passing on social media, expressing her grief at the loss of her “very own” and “quiet giant” son.
“My very own! My Obi. My #2. My heart. My father’s heart. My quiet giant!” his mother, Nkechy, wrote online. “Grand child of an elephant. Journey well to your maker oo. Mother Mary please hold his hands for me. St. Peter open the gate for him as the celestial choirs marshal him in to Jesus.”
We are saddened to hear about the passing of former Wolverine linebacker Obi Ezeh. Our prayers go out to his family, friends and former teammates. May he rest in peace. pic.twitter.com/2yjDvvDXj4
— Michigan Football (@UMichFootball) May 5, 2024
Ezeh played for Michigan from 2006-2010, earning freshman All-American honors in 2007 and an All-Big Ten honorable mention in 2008.
Over his college career he amassed nearly 300 tackles and other contributions for the Wolverines’ defense.
Both Michigan and others expressed sorrow over Ezeh’s unexpected death, though no cause was immediately reported.
His mother mourned the loss of her “beloved son” who would always be in her heart.
“My Obinna Ezeh, you will always be in my heart my beloved son,” she wrote.
