Former Michigan football star Obi Ezeh dies age 36 as his mother pays heartbreaking tribute to 'quiet giant'

Former Washington Redskins and University of Michigan linebacker Obi Ezeh has died at the age of 36, according to his family.

Ezeh's mother, Nkechy Ekere Ezeh posted an emotional tribute to her son on Facebook on Sunday, May 5.

'My very own! My Obi. My #2. My heart. My father’s heart. My quiet giant! Grand child of an elephant. Journey well to your maker oo,' the post read.

'Mother Mary please hold his hands for me. St. Peter open the gate for him as the celestial choirs marshal him in to Jesus. 

'My Obinna Ezeh, you will always be in my heart my beloved son.'

Former University of Michigan linebacker Obi Ezeh has died of unknown causes at age 36

Ezeh recorded 293 tackles, three sacks, and two interceptions in his Michigan career

He went undrafted and signed with the Washington Redskins, but was cut from the team

The details of the linebacker's death have not yet been released.

The University of Michigan Football team's Twitter account posted, '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 played at Michigan from 2006-2010 - recording 293 tackles, three sacks, and two interceptions across 49 games.

In his redshirt junior season, he was named a semifinalist for the Butkus Award, given to the top college linebacker in the country.

After college, he went undrafted but signed with the Redskins. He would later be waived from the team.

It's been a tough week for the University of Michigan. Earlier this weekend, it was revealed that former Wolverine and NBA star Darius Morris had died at the age of 33.