Former Nebraska football player and beloved community figure Matt Vrzal has died at the age of 51, according to multiple reports, including 1620 The Zone and Hurrdat Sports.
Former Husker and Piezon’s Owner Matt Vrzal Dies at 51
A walk-on offensive lineman from Grand Island, Nebraska, Vrzal played for the Huskers from 1993 to 1996, appearing in more than 30 games and helping Nebraska secure two National Championships. He contributed at both center and guard during one of the program’s most dominant eras.
After his playing career, Vrzal remained a fixture in the Omaha community. He became the owner of Piezon’s Pizzeria, a popular local restaurant, and frequently appeared on 1620 The Zone as a guest and contributor.
“Matt wasn’t just a guest and friend of 1620 The Zone — he was part of our Zone family,” the station said in a statement. “His passion for sports, his honesty, and his humor connected him with his customers and Zone listeners in a way that few ever could. His impact stretched far beyond the microphone and the pizzeria.”
Vrzal also shared his love for football through coaching, serving as an assistant coach at Omaha Skutt Catholic School, where he helped mentor the next generation of athletes.
Tributes poured in from across Nebraska sports media and the Husker community. Hurrdat Sports wrote:
“His passion and love for the game of football was unmatched. There wasn’t a person that crossed his path that didn’t leave with a smile. Matt was unapologetically himself, always quick with a joke, always around to lend a hand when anyone needed anything at all. Nebraska is a little less red today.”
Vrzal is remembered as a devoted husband, father, friend, coach, and business owner, whose influence stretched far beyond the football field.
He is survived by his family and countless friends in both the Husker and Omaha communities.
