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By Jenn McGraw
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Two days after hiring former Cleveland Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski, the Atlanta Falcons are proving their confidence in that decision as they're keeping defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich.
Stefanski, who comes from a defensively talented Browns team, will work to bounce back from a 10-year playoff deficit.
This move sets the tone for the trajectory the Falcons want to go in: stronger defense. The team already has some positives, like having a franchise-record 57 sacks in a single season, ranking 2nd in the NFL.
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Ulbrich improved the defensive significantly in every category compared to prior years, including ranking 6th in the NFL for interceptions (16).
Thanks to guys like James Pearce Jr. and Jalon Walker who put up collectively 16 sacks, Ulbrich's coaching philosophy emphasizes player empowerment. Ulbrich has situational success that will pair nicely with Stefanski's scheme.
This past season, the Falcons finished with an 8-9 record that encompasses 23 total takeaways – something both Stefanski and Ulbrich want to see happen more.
With Stefanski's heavily offensive-focused background, Ulbrich will be able to take more initiative on the defensive side. They have a complementary style – Stefanski is an offensive mastermind and emotional stabilizer and Ulbrich runs an aggressive, versatile scheme.
Stefanski had a 45-56 record with the Cleveland Browns, taking them to the two playoff games in 2020 and 2023. Stefanski was the first Browns coach to take them to the playoffs since 1999.
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