Southern Nazarene safety Tyler Ulrich dies five days after 'traumatic injury' in game

Southern Nazarene University in Bethany, Oklahoma, said on Thursday that sophomore safety Tyler Ulrich, 21, died five days after sustaining what the school called a "traumatic injury" during a game against Ouachita Baptist.

Ulrich was injured during a 49-14 loss on Saturday. The game was delayed for nearly an hour while he received medical attention on the field. He was subsequently transported to a hospital. The university did not disclose the cause of death or the specific nature of the injury.

SNU Athletics posted on its X account: "It is with heavy hearts that we share the loss of our SNU football player, Tyler Ulrich," adding, "This loss is deeply felt across our campus. Our hearts are with his family, friends, teammates, and everyone who knew him. We ask that you join us in lifting them up in prayer."

SNU coach Dustin Hada also posted a tribute on X, writing: "Man of God, ultimate example of quiet strength, loyal, worker, joyous. That’s who Tyler was!!" The university’s president, Keith Newman, said Ulrich died in the hospital "surrounded by the love, prayers, and presence of his family, teammates and dear friends."

Ulrich was from Azle, Texas. He was in his third season at Southern Nazarene. He had 16 starts in 20 games, including six starts this year. He ranked third on the team with 36 tackles.

On Tuesday, Southern Nazarene held a campuswide prayer chapel in Ulrich’s honor. Southern Nazarene have canceled their game at Southwestern Oklahoma State on Saturday.