Brian Urlacher's Hall Of Fame Enshrinement: When, How To Watch

CANTON, OHIO — Before he officially enters the Pro Football Hall of Fame this weekend, former Chicago Bears linebacker Brian Urlacher had an unofficial practice run of sorts Thursday in preparation for his enshrinement speech Saturday. The defensive star gave a pregame pep talk for members of the current Bears squad before they took the field against the Baltimore Ravens in the annual Hall of Fame Game in Canton, Ohio.

"I was proud to wear it for 13 years," Urlacher said of donning a Bears uniform on game days from 2000 to 2012 for his entire pro career. "It didn’t always work out for us. But it was still fun. I had great teammates, great memories. I’m just happy to be part of this organization.”

A first-ballot inductee, Urlacher becomes the 28th Chicago Bear to be enshrined in the Hall of Fame, joining legendary players such as George Hallas, Walter Payton, Dick Butkus, Mike Ditka and Gale Sayers. During his time in the NFL, he made the Pro Bowl eight times and was voted NFL Defensive Player of the Year in 2005. He ended his career as the Bears' all-time tackles leader.

“Twenty-eight Hall of Famers before you guys have put this jersey on. … Just realize that and be proud to put that jersey on," said Urlacher, who admitted this was the first time he gave a pregame speech.

The Bears lost Thursday's game, 17-16.

Here's what you need to know to catch Urlacher's Hall of Fame enshrinement this weekend.

Brian Urlacher's Pro Football Hall of Fame Enshrinement: The Basics

When: 6 p.m. Saturday, Aug. 4

Where: Tom Benson Hall of Fame Stadium, Canton, Ohio

TV: NFL Network and ESPN

More Info: Go to the website for the Pro Football Hall of Fame for details about the 2018 enshrinement ceremony

Brian Urlacher in 2017. (Photo by Abbie Parr | Getty Images)