West Atlanta News

The New York Jets concluded the 2020 season with a disappointing 2-14 record, marking their worst performance since 1996. In response, the team made significant changes to its coaching staff, appointing Robert Saleh as head coach and introducing new coordinators, including Jeff Ulbrich as the defensive coordinator.

Despite some progress under Ulbrich's leadership, the Jets have not yet achieved their desired results, recording consecutive 7-10 seasons in 2022 and 2023. However, improvements on defense were noted during Ulbrich's tenure.

In 2023, the Jets parted ways with offensive coordinator Mike LaFleur and brought in Nathaniel Hackett to work alongside quarterback Aaron Rodgers. Meanwhile, Ulbrich retained his role with the team.

During his time as defensive coordinator, Ulbrich led a notable transformation of the Jets' defense. In his first year in 2021, the team ranked last in both points and yards allowed. By 2022, they had improved significantly to rank fourth in these categories—a remarkable turnaround that marked the best improvement by any NFL team that year.

The Jets consistently ranked among the top five teams in total defense (yards per game allowed) over three seasons under Ulbrich's guidance. Their pass defense also maintained a top-five ranking during this period.

In 2024, after a challenging start to the season with a 2-3 record under Saleh's leadership, Ulbrich was appointed interim head coach. The team's performance declined further to finish with a 5-12 record for the season.

Ulbrich's career trajectory took an interesting turn when he joined the Atlanta Falcons as their new defensive coordinator. His previous experience with Raheem Morris at Atlanta likely facilitated this opportunity. "Raheem Morris' and Jeff Ulbrich's past may provide glimpse of Falcons' future," reflecting on their shared history.

Now stepping into his role with Atlanta, Ulbrich brings valuable experience from his time with both the Falcons and Jets. As he takes on this new challenge, his journey comes full circle from his earlier days as an assistant head coach and linebackers coach for Atlanta back in 2020.