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Falcons Retain Jeff Ulbrich as Defensive Coordinator Under Kevin Stefanski | Broncos Release Linebacker Dre Greenlaw | Patriots Eye Tight End Isaiah Likely to Support Drake Maye | Riq Woolen's Free Agency Outlook: Seahawks Exit and Potential Landing Spots | Gardner Minshew Joins Arizona Cardinals in Free Agency | Tim Settle Returns to Washington Commanders on Three-Year Deal | Cowboys Eye Boye Mafe and Odafe Oweh in Free Agency | Alontae Taylor Signs with Tennessee Titans | Bengals Sign Bryan Cook to Bolster Safety Position | Falcons Retain Jeff Ulbrich as Defensive Coordinator Under Kevin Stefanski | Broncos Release Linebacker Dre Greenlaw | Patriots Eye Tight End Isaiah Likely to Support Drake Maye | Riq Woolen's Free Agency Outlook: Seahawks Exit and Potential Landing Spots | Gardner Minshew Joins Arizona Cardinals in Free Agency | Tim Settle Returns to Washington Commanders on Three-Year Deal | Cowboys Eye Boye Mafe and Odafe Oweh in Free Agency | Alontae Taylor Signs with Tennessee Titans | Bengals Sign Bryan Cook to Bolster Safety Position

NFL / Falcons

Falcons Retain Jeff Ulbrich as Defensive Coordinator Under Kevin Stefanski

The Atlanta Falcons are keeping Jeff Ulbrich as their defensive coordinator after hiring Kevin Stefanski as head coach. This move ensures continuity for a defense that showed significant improvement in the 2025 season.

Falcons retaining DC Jeff Ulbrich under coach Kevin Stefanski
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Falcons Retain Jeff Ulbrich as Defensive Coordinator Under Kevin Stefanski Image via ESPN

Key Insights

  • Jeff Ulbrich has agreed to a new three-year contract with the Falcons.
  • In 2025, the Falcons' defense recorded a franchise-record 57 sacks, ranking second in the NFL. **Why this matters:** Improved pass rush was a key factor in the team's defensive turnaround.
  • Rookies James Pearce Jr. (10.5 sacks) and Xavier Watts (5 interceptions) made significant contributions under Ulbrich's guidance.
  • Owner Arthur Blank had recommended Ulbrich be retained, citing his positive impact on the defense.

In-Depth Analysis

Jeff Ulbrich's return to the Falcons in 2025 revitalized the defense, implementing an attack style of play that led to significant production increases. The Falcons went from ranking second-to-last in sacks in 2024 to second overall in 2025, showcasing the immediate impact of Ulbrich's coaching philosophy. Ulbrich's ability to integrate rookies like James Pearce Jr. and Xavier Watts into prominent roles proved crucial to the team's success. The defense finished sixth in the league with 16 interceptions and seventh with 23 total takeaways. Free agent signing Divine Deablo also proved to be a valuable asset, contributing both as a tackler and in coverage. The Falcons blocked other teams from interviewing Ulbrich, demonstrating their commitment to keeping him. Kevin Stefanski's decision to retain Ulbrich underscores the importance of defensive continuity as the team aims to build on its 2025 performance.

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FAQ

What were the key improvements in the Falcons' defense under Ulbrich?

The Falcons significantly improved their pass rush, recording a franchise-record 57 sacks in 2025.

Which rookies made significant contributions to the Falcons' defense in 2025?

James Pearce Jr. and Xavier Watts were key contributors, with Pearce recording 10.5 sacks and Watts making 5 interceptions.

Takeaways

  • The Falcons' decision to retain Jeff Ulbrich signifies their commitment to building on the defensive progress made in 2025. Key takeaways include: Continuity in coaching is crucial for sustained defensive improvement. The development of young talent, particularly rookies, can significantly impact a team's success. A strong pass rush and effective coverage are essential components of a successful defense.

Discussion

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Sources

Falcons retaining DC Jeff Ulbrich under coach Kevin Stefanski Falcons retain Jeff Ulbrich as defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is sticking around as Falcons defensive coordinator

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