SE Atlanta News

As the Atlanta Falcons prepare for the upcoming season, Jeff Ulbrich returns as their defensive coordinator. His reappointment has sparked mixed reactions among fans, with some expressing skepticism about his return.

Upon announcing Ulbrich's hiring, responses included comments like "Raheem Morris only hires his buddies" and "Didn't we try this already?" Such sentiments reflect a section of the fan base that questions bringing back a coach who previously held an interim position after less than five years away.

In an interview, Ulbrich addressed these concerns directly. He acknowledged the importance of actions over words: "Ultimately, whatever I am going to say is going to be words," he stated. He emphasized personal growth since his last tenure with the Falcons, saying, "I am not the same coach that I was four years ago."

Ulbrich credited Robert Saleh for allowing him autonomy during his time in New York. This experience contributed significantly to his development as a coach. He remarked on Saleh's approach: "After the first year, he really stepped away... But he absolutely let me run with it."

During those years under Ulbrich's leadership, New York's defense ranked among the top units in 2022 and 2023. These results demonstrate Ulbrich's capability as a defensive strategist.

The call now is for fans to give Ulbrich a chance to prove himself anew in Atlanta. As circumstances have changed since his previous stint, so too has Ulbrich as a coach.

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