Flowery Branch, Ga. — In a highly anticipated press conference on Monday, Jeff Ulbrich, the newly appointed defensive coordinator of the Atlanta Falcons, radiated enthusiasm as he reconnected with media members, reminding them of his competitive spirit and coaching insights.

Having formerly served as the interim head coach for the New York Jets, Ulbrich's deep roots with the Falcons run back to 2015, owing to his tenures as a linebackers coach and assistant head coach. "It's coming home for me," he reflected, expressing his commitment to revitalize the team he once helped shape under coach Dan Quinn.

Building a New Era

Ulbrich's connection with Falcons head coach Raheem Morris—who he regards as a close friend—was evident, as the two have turned their informal rapport into a collaborative coaching effort. "We transformed this into a very official meeting, proving that friendship and professionalism can coexist in coaching," Ulbrich quipped.

With a 10-year NFL linebacker career preceding his coaching days, Ulbrich emphasizes the evolution of his coaching philosophy. He acknowledges the changing dynamics of the game, stating, "Offensive coordinators are now ‘pains in my butt.’ They analyze your strategies, learn your rules, and create scenarios you've never faced."

A Multifaceted Approach

As Ulbrich prepares for the 2025 season, he recognizes the urgent need for adaptability and diverse strategies. Defensively, he envisions a scheme that is both 3-4 and 4-3, reflecting a growing need for versatility. The Falcons' pass rush issues, ranking among the worst in the league last season with only 31 sacks, will be a pivotal area of focus.

"You can't thrive in this league from a defensive perspective without a good pass rush," Ulbrich stated firmly, underscoring his belief that this will be the cornerstone of the new strategy.

Harnessing Player Potential

One of Ulbrich's main goals is to harness the inherent abilities of the Falcons' defensive talents. He jokingly expressed his ambition to "unlock the super powers" of his players, advocating for a creative approach that pushes conventional boundaries—potentially crafting something unprecedented in NFL history.

Drawing from his interim coach experience, he emphasizes the importance of delegating responsibilities and transparent communication. "I learned that truth-telling is vital, especially in leadership roles, where it can prevent missteps and foster growth," Ulbrich shared, reflecting on the challenges he overcame under pressure at the Jets.

The Falcons, coming off a disappointing 8-9 record, are determined to break their playoff drought that has persisted for seven seasons. Ulbrich's return marks a significant shift toward revitalizing a defense that will require innovation, collaboration, and most importantly, resilience.