Former Michigan State football standout LB Obi Eze dies at age 36

Former Michigan State football standout linebacker Obi Eze has died at the age of 36, his mother announced on social media over the weekend.

The Grand Rapids native was a star at Grand Rapids Catholic Central, where he was a three-year starter, setting the school's all-time rushing record (3,189 yards) and leading the team to an 11-2 record in 2005. They won the Division 4 state championship game. senior. He later helped lead the rugby team to a state title.

“Mine! My belt. My #2. My heart. My father's heart. My silent giant!” his mother, Nkesie, posted on Facebook. “Grandson of the elephant, journey cheerfully to your Maker. May the Virgin Mary hold your hand for me, as the heavenly choir leads him to Jesus. St. Peter will open the gate for him.”

“My Obinna Eze, you are always in my heart, my beloved son. 💙”

Eze played in Ann Arbor for five years (2006-2010) under coaches Lloyd Kerr and Rich Rodriguez, becoming a mainstay in the midfield. The 6-foot-4, 244-pound Eze played in 50 games throughout his collegiate career and, after redshirting in 2006, was a freshman All-America in 2007 and All-Big Ten honorable mention in 2008. He became a player.

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He recorded 293 total tackles, including 19 1/2 for loss, three sacks, three fumble recoveries, two interceptions, and eight pass breakups, and had nine games with 10 or more tackles.

Michigan State Football: “We are saddened to hear of the passing of former Wolverine linebacker Obi Eze.'' I wrote to X on Sunday morning. “Our prayers go out to his family, friends and his former teammates. May he rest in peace.”