College Football Player's Cause of Death Determined After On-Field Collision
A coroner's report has revealed that Southern Nazarene University player Tyler Ulrich died from a traumatic brain injury following a helmet-to-helmet hit during a game.
Tyler Ulrich, a 21-year-old sophomore defensive back at Southern Nazarene University (SNU), died of a traumatic brain injury and subsequent brain bleed resulting from an on-field collision, according to a coroner's report obtained by ESPN.
The incident occurred on October 10 during SNU's game against Ouachita Baptist. The collision, described as helmet-to-helmet, caused a significant delay of approximately 45 minutes as medical staff attended to Ulrich. He was subsequently hospitalized and passed away five days later.
Southern Nazarene University acknowledged the tragedy, stating, "This loss is deeply felt across our campus. Our hearts are with his family, friends, teammates, and everyone who had the privilege of knowing him. We ask that you join us in lifting them up in prayer during this incredibly difficult time."
Following Ulrich's death, the university made the decision to cancel their game the following week. A celebration of life service was held for Ulrich in Azle, Texas.
"Tyler was an outstanding football player and a tremendous man of faith," said Crimson Storm head coach Dustin Hada. "He was a great example of quiet strength and a leader in our locker room for sure."
Ulrich's death marks the second fatality of a college football player following an on-field incident this season. In August, William Jewell College running back MicahJo Barnett died after collapsing during a game.