The New York Jets have made a significant addition to their coaching staff by hiring Steve Wilks as the new defensive coordinator, as announced by ESPN. Wilks, who previously served as the defensive coordinator for the San Francisco 49ers, was out of the league last season after a disappointing tenure that included a firing post-Super Bowl LVIII.

Jets head coach Aaron Glenn, who emphasized his aim to not call defensive plays to focus on head coaching responsibilities, believes Wilks' experience will be valuable. This move comes as the Jets look to maintain their strong defensive performance while facing potential roster changes as key players become free agents.

Raheem Morris, head coach of the Atlanta Falcons, finds himself in a challenging situation requiring a strong defensive strategy. To navigate this, he has enlisted the help of his long-time friend and colleague, Jeff Ulbrich, who has transitioned from coaching the New York Jets to serving as Atlanta's defensive coordinator. This partnership is built on a foundation of mutual respect and understanding, which Ulbrich emphasized during a recent press conference. The hiring process was notably professional, reflecting the seriousness of their mission.

Ulbrich's past experience and his stint as an interim head coach have transformed his approach to coaching, transitioning him from the role of a supportive friend to an essential voice in critical decisions. He recognizes the importance of honesty and transparency in their working relationship, understanding that a successful defense hinges on effective communication and strategy adjustments. Ulbrich's insights will be vital in identifying blind spots within the team's performance.

The Falcons' defensive struggles, particularly in generating pressure on opposing quarterbacks, highlighted the need for a robust pass rush. Ulbrich underscored the significance of this aspect, stating that a defense cannot thrive without it. Their collaborative approach aims to cultivate an intelligent and adaptable defensive unit that can withstand the challenges posed by elite offenses in the league.

The Atlanta Falcons are revamping their defensive coaching staff, appointing Mike Rutenberg as the new defensive pass game coordinator and Nate Ollie as the defensive line coach. Both hires come just days after Jeff Ulbrich, formerly the interim head coach for the New York Jets, was named the Falcons' defensive coordinator. Rutenberg arrives from a four-year stint as the Jets' linebackers coach, while Ollie was previously the assistant defensive line coach for the Houston Texans. The Falcons' dismal 8-9 record last season led to the dismissal of former defensive coordinator Jimmy Lake and defensive line coach Jay Rodgers.

Rutenberg's experience with the Jets, coupled with Ollie's time coaching the Colts and Eagles, is expected to bolster the Falcons' defensive performance, which ranked 23rd in the league. Their goal will be to improve on the 24.9 points allowed per game under head coach Raheem Morris, as the team seeks to turn around its defensive struggles.

The Atlanta Falcons have appointed Jeff Ulbrich as their new defensive coordinator, emphasizing the need for improved pressure on the defensive line. With the Falcons slated to pick 15th in the upcoming NFL Draft, they are eyeing standout edge rusher Mykel Williams from Georgia. Despite a dismal 31st ranking in sacks last season, Williams is noted for his unique blend of height, athleticism, and run-stopping prowess, having recorded five sacks and 15 quarterback pressures in 2024.

Williams, a former five-star recruit and two-time second-team All-SEC honoree, could significantly bolster the Falcons' defense. However, experts suggest that Atlanta may face tough competition for his services, as projections indicate he could be scooped up by the Carolina Panthers with the eighth overall pick.

Jeff Ulbrich, the former interim head coach of the New York Jets, is set to join the Atlanta Falcons as their new defensive coordinator. This decision comes after a disappointing season for the Jets, where they finished with a 5-12 record and parted ways with head coach Robert Saleh after just five games.

Ulbrich's transition to the Falcons reunites him with Raheem Morris, a close friend with whom he previously worked in 2015. Known for his extensive playing career as a linebacker with the San Francisco 49ers, Ulbrich aims to revitalize the Falcons' defense.