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.

The Atlanta Falcons have announced the hiring of Jeff Ulbrich as the new defensive coordinator after a disappointing 2022 season where the team finished 8-9. Ulbrich, who previously served as Atlanta's assistant from 2015 to 2020 and most recently was the New York Jets' interim head coach, replaces Jimmy Lake, who was fired following a season where the Falcons ranked 23rd in total defense and last in sacks.

Ulbrich's appointment marks a return to Atlanta, where he worked closely with current head coach Raheem Morris. During his last tenure, Ulbrich held various roles, including linebackers coach and assistant head coach. His familiarity with the organization is seen as a positive element as the Falcons aim to revamp their defense.

Raheem Morris has reappointed Jeff Ulbrich as the Atlanta Falcons' defensive coordinator, marking a return to a familiar partnership that dates back to their time together from 2015 to 2020. Ulbrich, who previously held this role under Morris during his interim head coaching stint in 2020, takes over from Jimmy Lake, who was let go after just one season.

Ulbrich recently served as the interim head coach for the New York Jets, managing a difficult stretch where the team finished 3-9. His prior tenure as the Jets' defensive coordinator saw the defense ranked among the top five in defensive expected points added in 2022 and 2023.

The Falcons' defense experienced significant struggles last season under Lake, leading the league in completion percentage allowed to opposing quarterbacks and recording the second lowest sack total.

The Atlanta Falcons have officially appointed Jeff Ulbrich as their new defensive coordinator. Previously the interim head coach of the New York Jets, Ulbrich served as their defensive coordinator from 2021 until early 2025. Although he led a top-10 defense in 2023-24, his tenure as head coach saw mixed results, with the Jets finishing the season at 5-12, culminating in a disappointing third-place finish in the AFC East.

Ulbrich's return to Atlanta marks a reunion, as he spent six seasons with the Falcons prior to his time in New York, serving as their linebackers coach, assistant head coach, and defensive coordinator.