Americans were shocked this week to learn that a former offensive lineman for the Super Bowl-winning Indianapolis Colts died suddenly at the age 41. 

According to Fox News, Matt Ulrich's passing was made public via a statement issued by Indianapolis Colts owner Jim Irsay on the social media platform previously known as Twitter.

Ulrich remembered as a "great guy and "a great dad"

"I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Matt Ulrich. Matt was with us only two seasons, but left his mark on many," Irsay wrote above a photo of Ulrich holding a trophy.

I am heartbroken to hear of the passing of Matt Ulrich. Matt was with us only two seasons, but left his mark on many. Great guy, I hear he was a great dad---and he was a Super Bowl champ. My prayers to his family. 🙏 pic.twitter.com/Cb21IkP1XT

— Jim Irsay (@JimIrsay) November 8, 2023

"Great guy, I hear he was a great dad---and he was a Super Bowl champ," the team owner continued, adding, "My prayers to his family."

Fox News recalled how Ulrich graduated from Northwestern University prior to signing with the Indianapolis Colts as an undrafted free agent in 2005.

Ulrich's team subsequently managed to pull off a Super Bowl championship victory over the Chicago Bears by a margin of 29 to 17.

Athlete pursued a business career after his retirement

Fox News noted that following his retirement from professional sports in 2006, Ulrich founded a company called DexaFit, which specializes in body analysis technology.

What's more, Ulrich also became chief growth officer at the Montana-based consulting firm Profitable Ideas Exchange.

"Keeping up with my four pre-teen sons is the highlight of my life and keeps me on my toes," Ulrich was quoted as writing on his Profitable Ideas Exchange profile.

"I also invest my time in helping young athletes in our area reach their full potential through coaching and training — this is one of my true passions," he continued.

Some wonder if COVID-19 vaccine may have been a factor

"I can also often be found at the gym, where I recently bench-pressed 505 pounds at the age of 40 — the goal-setting doesn’t stop!" Ulrich went on to stress.

The cause of Ulrich's death was not made public, leading some observers to speculate that the COVID-19 vaccine may have been a factor in his passing.

41 year old NFL football player, Super Bowl champion and retired Indianapolis Colts offensive guard Matt Ulrich died on November 8, 2023.

Cause of death not reported.

COVID-19 mRNA Vaccine Sudden deaths are at an all time high#DiedSuddenly #Pfizer #Moderna #cdnpoli #ableg pic.twitter.com/cEMzkAVyCw

— William Makis MD (@MakisMD) November 9, 2023