There were a few wondering why Urlacher could not play with a cast, like we have seen some other players do with certain injuries. I found the article linked below very informative and was definitely worth reading.

 

Urlacher Praises Bears' Medical Team

Yeah his injury is pretty serious. There was obviously nothing he could have done. He could have played.. IF he wanted his career to be over. He could have suffered permanent damage to his nerves, hopefully he can come back next year and play well. He'll be a year older but a year fresher.