SE Atlanta News

Jeff Ulbrich, the defensive coordinator for the Atlanta Falcons, has been involved with the NFL since 2000, apart from a brief period in collegiate coaching. Over his career, Ulbrich has witnessed changes in both the sport and its participants. He believes adapting to these changes is crucial for effective coaching.

"I'm getting this argument a lot of times with old football heads of like, 'Well, when I played or when I coached back 20 years ago, they could sit there and grind through five hours of tape and take notes the entire time,'" Ulbrich explained. "But I don't believe in that way of coaching or teaching anymore. I don't."

Ulbrich began his coaching journey in 2010 at age 33. He started as a special teams assistant and progressed to various roles, including defensive position coach and eventually a full-time coordinator position by 2021. Throughout his career progression, he has adapted his methods to suit modern players' learning styles.

"I put a lot into learning the new-age learner," Ulbrich said. He noted how technology like Apple's iPad and Microsoft's Surface—tools not available during his playing days—are now integral to training routines.

He emphasized the importance of engaging players using contemporary techniques: "I've picked up a lot of some really cool things and ways to engage the player," he said.

Ulbrich's approach varies depending on individual needs: "So, what type of teacher (am I)? It depends on the learner."