Cristina Ulbrich, wife of Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, dies after cancer battle

The Atlanta Falcons announced Thursday that Cristina Ulbrich, the wife of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, has died following a battle with cancer. Jeff had been away from the team since the beginning of training camp earlier this week because of a personal matter. The couple is survived by their three children.

“The Atlanta Falcons are heartbroken by the passing of Cristina Ulbrich, beloved wife of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, after her courageous battle with cancer,” the Falcons said in a statement on X.



"Cristina was a devoted wife, mother, and friend whose strength, grace, and resilience touched all who knew her. She was a constant source of love and support to Jeff, their family, and the broader Falcons community.

"On behalf of the entire organization, we extend our deepest condolences to Jeff, their children, and all who loved Cristina.

"During this incredibly difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with the Ulbrich family. We ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve this profound loss, and we stand with them in support and remembrance of Cristina’s life."


Jeff and Cristina first met in 1997 during one of Jeff's recruiting visits to the University of Hawaii, reported ESPN. He went on to play three seasons for the Rainbow Warriors before spending 10 years in the NFL as a linebacker with the San Francisco 49ers.

Ulbrich returned to Atlanta for the 2025 season after serving as the New York Jets' defensive coordinator and later their interim head coach. He had previously been a member of the Falcons' coaching staff from 2015 through 2020, a period that included the franchise's run to Super Bowl LI.

According to ESPN, when Kevin Stefanski took over as the Atlanta Falcons' head coach in January, team owner Arthur Blank recommended that Jeff Ulbrich remain in charge of the defense for the 2026 season.

Blank's endorsement followed a standout defensive campaign under Ulbrich, with the Falcons recording a franchise-best 57 sacks and showing marked improvement on that side of the ball.