Updated Jan. 19, 2026, 11:56 a.m. ET
As expected, the Atlanta Falcons are retaining Jeff Ulbrich as their defensive coordinator in 2026. The move comes just two days after the team named Kevin Stefanski the 20th head coach in franchise history.
The Falcons have been linked to other names as well, but keeping Ulbrich is the first official move of Stefanski’s tenure as coach. Atlanta’s defense finished second in the NFL with 57 total sacks, setting a new franchise record in the process.
This was a massive improvement for a team that finished 31st in the league last year with just 31 sacks. Aside from the sack numbers, the Falcons received major contributions from their rookies.
James Pearce Jr. led the 2025 NFL draft class with 10.5 sacks, Jalon Walker finished second in the class with 5.5 sacks, and Xavier Watts led all rookies with five interceptions. Plus, second-year players Brandon Dorlus and Ruke Orhorhoro both became key contributors after barely playing as rookies.
The Falcons finished middle of the pack in terms of total points and yards allowed, but the defense finished sixth in the league with 16 interceptions.
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With Ulbrich returning, the focus has shifted to Atlanta’s offensive coordinator position. NFL Network reported that former Cleveland Browns offensive coordinator Tommy Rees is considered the favorite. Either way, it doesn’t appear that Zac Robinson will return in 2026.
Stay tuned for more coaching updates as Stefanski continues to fill out his staff for the upcoming season.
