Posted on Jan 19

Falcons retain DC Ulbrich on three-year deal under new HC Stefanski

Posted Jan 19, 2026

The Atlanta Falcons have retained Jeff Ulbrich as their defensive coordinator under new head coach Kevin Stefanski, securing his strategic direction for the team.

Why it matters: This decision underscores the Falcons' commitment to continuity and development within their defensive unit, which has shown marked improvement over recent seasons.

Under Ulbrich's guidance, the Falcons recorded a franchise-best 57 sacks in the previous season, ranking second in the NFL.
Retaining Ulbrich is expected to enhance the effectiveness of young talent like rookie edge rusher James Pearce Jr., who led all first-year players with 10.5 sacks.

What’s new: Ulbrich has signed a three-year contract to remain with the Falcons, following a recommendation from team owner Arthur Blank.

Blank emphasized that while he did not mandate Ulbrich's retention, he believed it was beneficial for the team's future.
This stability comes at a crucial time, as the Falcons have not made the playoffs or had a winning record in eight years.

By the numbers: The Falcons have significantly improved their pass rush under Ulbrich compared to previous seasons.

The team had 30 fewer sacks than any other NFL team over the six years leading up to the 2025 season, highlighting the turnaround achieved during Ulbrich's tenure.
In addition to Pearce Jr.'s success, fellow rookies Jalon Walker (5.5 sacks) and Xavier Watts (five interceptions) have also made impactful contributions to the defense.

Yes, but: Despite recent progress, the Falcons face ongoing challenges in their pursuit of playoff contention.

While the defensive performance improved, the overall team success remains elusive; the franchise has struggled since its Super Bowl appearance in 2016.
Ulbrich's history with the organization, including a stint with the New York Jets where he served as interim head coach, may provide valuable lessons moving forward.

What to watch: As the Falcons prepare for the upcoming season, how Ulbrich integrates new strategies and develops his young players will be pivotal.

With Stefanski’s offensive vision and Ulbrich’s defensive acumen, the Falcons may find a promising balance that could lead to competitive play in the NFC South.
Observers will be keen to see if the synergy between the coaching staff and emerging talents fosters sustained success.

The bottom line: Keeping Jeff Ulbrich indicates the Falcons are not only focused on immediate results but also on building a foundation for long-term success.

As the franchise seeks to return to prominence, the combination of experienced leadership and youthful vigor may finally break the playoff drought experienced in recent years.

Falcons retain DC Ulbrich on three-year deal under new HC Stefanski

Alex Parker

Posted Jan 19, 2026

The Atlanta Falcons have retained Jeff Ulbrich as their defensive coordinator under new head coach Kevin Stefanski, securing his strategic direction for the team.

Why it matters: This decision underscores the Falcons' commitment to continuity and development within their defensive unit, which has shown marked improvement over recent seasons.

Under Ulbrich's guidance, the Falcons recorded a franchise-best 57 sacks in the previous season, ranking second in the NFL.

Retaining Ulbrich is expected to enhance the effectiveness of young talent like rookie edge rusher James Pearce Jr., who led all first-year players with 10.5 sacks.

What’s new: Ulbrich has signed a three-year contract to remain with the Falcons, following a recommendation from team owner Arthur Blank.

Blank emphasized that while he did not mandate Ulbrich's retention, he believed it was beneficial for the team's future.

This stability comes at a crucial time, as the Falcons have not made the playoffs or had a winning record in eight years.

By the numbers: The Falcons have significantly improved their pass rush under Ulbrich compared to previous seasons.

The team had 30 fewer sacks than any other NFL team over the six years leading up to the 2025 season, highlighting the turnaround achieved during Ulbrich's tenure.

In addition to Pearce Jr.'s success, fellow rookies Jalon Walker (5.5 sacks) and Xavier Watts (five interceptions) have also made impactful contributions to the defense.

Yes, but: Despite recent progress, the Falcons face ongoing challenges in their pursuit of playoff contention.

While the defensive performance improved, the overall team success remains elusive; the franchise has struggled since its Super Bowl appearance in 2016.

Ulbrich's history with the organization, including a stint with the New York Jets where he served as interim head coach, may provide valuable lessons moving forward.

What to watch: As the Falcons prepare for the upcoming season, how Ulbrich integrates new strategies and develops his young players will be pivotal.

With Stefanski’s offensive vision and Ulbrich’s defensive acumen, the Falcons may find a promising balance that could lead to competitive play in the NFC South.

Observers will be keen to see if the synergy between the coaching staff and emerging talents fosters sustained success.

The bottom line: Keeping Jeff Ulbrich indicates the Falcons are not only focused on immediate results but also on building a foundation for long-term success.

As the franchise seeks to return to prominence, the combination of experienced leadership and youthful vigor may finally break the playoff drought experienced in recent years.