Brian Urlacher became the leading tackler in Bears history on Thursday night when he registered the 1,488th career stop of his 11-year career, which is one more than Mike Singletary. Gary Fencik is third with 1,102 and Lance Briggs began the game in fourth place with 1,072 career tackles.
"It's cool to have your name in the category with all those guys who have played here," Urlacher said. "It's cool."
Tackles weren't officially recorded until 1971 and are based not on the official press box stats but film review by the Bears' coaching staff. Although the tackle totals of several Hall of Fame defenders such as Dick Butkus and Doug Buffone have not been compiled, the record is likely legitimate because careers and seasons were shorter when they played.
Urlacher, who leads the team in tackles again this season, also had a sack. He now has 2 1/2 on the season.
NOTE TO READERS: There will be more about this in Sunday's editions of the Sun-Times.
This really is an awesome record for Urlacher. This will also cement his place among all the Bear greats. To even get a 1000 tackles is saying something, If nothing else, it proves a players consistency over time. I think before its all said and done, Briggs will be in second place. If the Bears defense can stay ranked 5th or better, and Lach and Briggs continue their great play, their both gonna be in the Pro-Bowl. That would be 6 straight for Briggs, and a 7th apperance for Lach, I'd like to see Lach get a couple more Pro-Bowls under his belt before he retires so the guy can be a first ballot Hall of Famer.
Neil, what is the all-time record for tackles NFL wise? GO BEARS!!