Rest in Peace – Sherrone Moore Pays His Respects as Michigan Loses Former LB Obi Ezeh Who Won the Zatkoff Award in 2008

Sherrone Moore and the University of Michigan football community are mourning the tragic loss of former linebacker Obi Ezeh. This heartbreaking news follows the recent passing of former Michigan basketball point guard Darius Morris, who died on Thursday at the young age of 33. The cause of his death remains undisclosed.

Ezeh’s untimely death at the age of 36 was announced on May 5th. While further details surrounding Ezeh’s passing remain private, his mother, Nkechy Ekere Ezeh, shared a touching tribute on Facebook Sunday morning. Her post began, “My very own! My Obi.” and confirmed his passing, adding, “Mother Mary please hold his hands for me. St. Peter opens the gate for him as the celestial choirs marshal him into Jesus. My Obinna Ezeh, you will always be in my heart, my beloved son.” Now, coach Sherrone Moore joined the family in offering condolences and honoring the legacy of Obi Ezeh.

Obi Ezeh, a standout linebacker for the Michigan Wolverines, is being mourned by the university and its football community. Ezeh’s dedication spanned five seasons (2006-10) under coaches Rich Rodriguez and Lloyd Carr, contributing to a 35-28 record during his collegiate career.

Wolverines’ new head coach Sherrone Moore honored the 36-year-old athlete’s memory by sharing a black-and-white picture of Ezeh in action on his Instagram Story. 

The University of Michigan offered heartfelt condolences on Instagram alongside the same picture.“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.” Ezeh indeed left an undeniable impact on the Wolverines program and went on to sign with the Washington Redskins. 

Obi Ezeh’s time with Redskins was short-lived

Obi Ezeh’s football journey began at Grand Rapids Catholic Central, where he shined as a star player. His talent earned him a coveted spot on the Michigan Wolverines roster. While he sat out his first year (red-shirted), Ezeh quickly made his mark in the following season, playing all 13 games and starting in 10. Ezeh left a lasting impact on the Wolverines as he finished his career with an impressive 293 tackles, including 19.5 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 3 fumble recoveries, and 2 interceptions. His dedication earned him the Zatkoff Award in 2008 and a Butkus Award semi-finalist nomination the following year.

Despite his college success, Ezeh went undrafted into the NFL. Though he signed with the Washington Redskins, his time with them was short-lived. He never landed another full-time roster spot, but his passion and skills were undeniable.