NFL News: Falcons DC Jeff Ulbrich breaks silence on Browns QB Shedeur Sanders prank controversy

The consequences of the controversial prank call made to Shedeur Sanders during the NFL draft continue to unfold. Jeff Ulbrich, the newly appointed defensive coordinator of the Atlanta Falcons, held a press conference where he clarified the case related to the quarterback recently selected by the Cleveland Browns.

In the last few hours, the NFL fined the Falcons $250,000 and Jeff Ulbrich $100,000 for failing to prevent the disclosure of confidential information related to the draft. Jax, Jeff Ulbrich’s son, obtained Sanders’ phone number through his father’s iPad and later publicly apologized for his actions.

Ulbrich was not directly involved but took responsibility for the incident. The Falcons issued an official apology to Browns quarterback Sanders, and the team’s defensive coordinator broke his silence to speak at a press conference and clarify the situation.

What did Ulbrich say about his son’s prank on Shedeur Sanders?

“First of all, I’d like to publicly apologize to Shedeur and the Sanders family for what occurred. Second of all, I want to publicly apologize to Mr. Blank, Terry Fontenot, Raheem Morris, and the entire Falcons organization. My actions in not protecting confidential data were inexcusable,” Ulbrich said at press conference.

Shedeur Sanders speaks to the media during the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine at Lucas Oil Stadium on February 28, 2025 in Indianapolis, Indiana.

“My son’s actions were absolutely inexcusable and for that we are both deeply sorry. The NFL has taken action and I fully respect the punishment. We take full responsibility — my son and myself — and we will not appeal the fine in any way. Going forward, I promise my son and I will work hard to demonstrate we are better than this,” he said.

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NFL imposes severe fine on Falcons and DC Jeff Ulbrich after controversial prank involving Shedeur Sanders

How much is Jeff Ulbrich’s salary?

The controversy surrounding the prank on Sanders and the amount Ulbrich has to pay for the fine imposed by the NFL raises the question of how much the Falcons’ defensive coordinator earns. According to Front Office Sports, the former interim coach of the New York Jets earns an estimated $1.6 million per year.