Bears LB Brian Urlacher was back among his teammates Thursday morning, three days after the death of his mother, Lavoyda Lenard.

The Chicago Tribune first reported Urlacher’s return to Halas Hall, but it’s unknown if he’ll be on the field Sunday against the Saints. A source told the newspaper that Urlacher plans to play.

Bears coach Lovie Smith, who lost his own mother in February, urged Urlacher to put family before football, and the team feels good about its depth at linebacker if Urlacher were to miss the game. That said, signs point to the seven-time Pro Bowl selection suiting up for the 1-0 Bears.

Be sure to check back, as it’s a situation we’ll monitor as the day progresses.

– Marc Sessler

UPDATE: Bears LB Lance Briggs confirmed to reporters that Urlacher is with the team. Briggs also revealed that Urlacher will play Sunday, saying: “He’s making the best decision for himself.”

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