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Falcons denying interview access to DC Jeff Ulbrich

Originally posted on SportsTalkATL | By Chase Irle | Last updated Jan 9, 2026 1:29 PM ET

Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich was one of the few bright spots in an underwhelming season. His aggressive approach completely transformed a pass rush that had been dormant for decades. Entering the year, the last time Atlanta finished inside the top 10 in sacks was all the way back in 2004. They finished second this season, racking up a franchise-record 57 sacks, led by rookie sensation James Pearce Jr.

As a unit, the Falcons went from one of the worst defenses in football to a legitimate middle-of-the-pack group, with plenty of room to grow as their young players continue to develop under Ulbrich’s watch. The next head coach may very well want to retain him, and the Falcons appear to be keeping that option open, denying the Cowboys permission to interview Ulbrich for their defensive coordinator vacancy.

Sources: The #Cowboys requested to interview #Falcons DC Jeff Ulbrich for their vacant DC job, but Atlanta denied the request.

Falcons owner Arthur Blank said today the team would recommend Ulbrich to remain as their DC once a new HC is hired, though the final decision will be… pic.twitter.com/gxA6SM6cpe

— Jordan Schultz (@Schultz_Report) January 8, 2026

It’s highly unlikely the Cowboys are the only team that would be interested in Ulbrich’s services if he were to become available. He was already well respected around the league before rejoining the Falcons, and he only enhanced his resumé with the job he did this season.

Whether he’s back in Atlanta in 2026 will ultimately come down to who is hired as the next head coach, but it’s difficult to imagine anyone being eager to replace Jeff Ulbrich.

This article first appeared on SportsTalkATL and was syndicated with permission.

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