Not two days removed from his departure, the man of steel reserve returned to the metropolis of Chicago to lead the Bears defense as they prepare for The Battle at the Bayou versus the New Orleans Saints. Judging by the quotes from both the media availability and from Lance Briggs' presser available at ChicagoBears.com, the team was immediately emotionally inspired by his presence.

“It was good to get him back today. When you're going through tough times, you want to get back to your support group, which is here with his teammates. Football is very important to him. I know he's excited about playing Sunday.”

Lovie Smith

“What can you say? He's the leader of our defense and in the locker room. They just have so much respect for him and not just as a player. He's a pro.”

Rod Marinelli

“Brian's a warrior. I don't even know how I would handle that if I even lost a family member, let alone my mother. It's a tough situation. He's amazing for being back here already.”

Henry Melton

“As a friend, you support your friend. I'm glad he's back. That's a tough situation. I've always admired him especially upon meeting him and getting a chance to spend time with him and that admiration just grows and grows. The way he approaches the game, for me, I've always been lucky enough to learn from him.”

Lance Briggs.

“I think he's going to have probably one of the best games of his career. We're glad to have him back. He'll be playing this one for his mom.”

Corey Wootton

Make no mistake about it, Brian Urlacher's return made a huge impression not only on his teammates and his coaches, but on Bears fans as well. I myself was very surprised and extremely impressed with the extremely high level of character, professionalism, and mental toughness displayed by Urlacher with his sudden return to Halas Hall. I can't remember the last time I've been so anxious to watch a Chicago Bears regular season game. Regardless of the outcome of Sunday afternoon's contest versus the New Orleans Saints, Brian Urlacher has already won the respect, admiration, and the hearts of his teammates, the city of Chicago, and football fans across the nation.