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 Washington Commanders must now remove Jeff Ulbrich from their list of defensive coordinator candidates. On January 19, the Atlanta Falcons confirmed they are retaining Ulbrich as defensive coordinator. Team owner Arthur Blank discussed the matter with atlantafalcons.com, stating:

As expected, Jeff Ulbrich has worked out a new deal to remain the Falcons' defensive coordinator. More at PFR.

With Kevin Stefanski’s hire, the team will indeed be keeping Ulbrich. per NFL insider Ian Rapoport. It ensures continuity on defense, allowing the team to build on their 2025 performance if they can enhance the roster, and will hopefully help the Falcons avoid the Ryan Nielsen-to-Jimmy Lake fiasco of 2023/2024.

The Falcons will not have a new defensive coordinator in 2026. Atlanta announced on Monday morning that the club will be keeping Jeff Ulbrich in the same position under new head coach Kevin Stefanski. Via Tom Pelissero of NFL Media, Ulbrich has a new three-year contract to stick with the franchise.

The Dallas Cowboys defensive coordinator search is down a candidate after the Falcons retain Jeff Ulbrich as their defensive coordinator

Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich is expected to stay with the Falcons, while offensive line coach/run game coordinator Dwayne Ledford is expected to move on.

The Cowboys' search for a new defensive coordinator continues, but will likely proceed without potential candidate Jeff Ulbrich.