NW Atlanta News

Jeff Ulbrich, the new defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, has stressed the importance of adaptability and versatility in defense during his introductory press conference. Ulbrich emphasized that modern NFL defenses must be fluid rather than sticking to a traditional base formation.

"If we look back 15, 20 years ago, there were 3-4 teams and there were 4-3 teams, and you were one or the other," said Ulbrich. "It's not that way anymore. Offenses have jumped off the playbook. … It's really forced us from a defensive standpoint to get more multiplicity in all that we do, front-wise, coverage-wise, all of that."

Ulbrich's history with the Falcons includes roles as linebackers coach and interim defensive coordinator before joining the New York Jets as their defensive coordinator in 2021. During his tenure with the Jets, their defense ranked among the top five despite overall team struggles.

Returning to Atlanta with Raheem Morris as head coach, Ulbrich is determined to learn from past experiences. "The multiplicity is there to create," he noted, acknowledging previous shortcomings in adapting during games.

To achieve this adaptive approach, Ulbrich plans to analyze the Falcons' current defense alongside his coaching staff and incorporate successful strategies from his time with the Jets. Decisions regarding personnel will also play a crucial role.

"I'd like to say I'll have a lot of input as far as that's concerned," Ulbrich stated regarding roster building. He highlighted that while schemes are important, it is ultimately the players who bring them to life.

With several key players under contract review and potential additions through drafts and free agency on the horizon, Ulbrich's return marks a fresh start for Atlanta's defense.

"A lot of work to be done," he concluded. "But it's the type of work that you wake up in the morning; you're fired up to get started with."