The Atlanta Falcons announced Thursday that Cristina Ulbrich, wife of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, died after a battle with cancer. Her age was not publicly disclosed.
“Cristina was a devoted wife, mother and friend whose strength, grace and resilience touched all who knew her,” the statement the team posted on X read in part. “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.”
A statement on the passing of Cristina Ulbrich, beloved wife of Jeff Ulbrich pic.twitter.com/vZiNl0AKoe
— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) July 30, 2026
Jeff Ulbrich joined the Falcons as defensive coordinator in 2025. Before that, he served as the New York Jets’ defensive coordinator from 2021 through 2024. The Jets named him interim head coach five games into the 2024 season after the firing of Robert Saleh. He was also defensive coordinator of the Falcons in 2020 before joining the Jets.
The Athletic reported in 2023 that the couple met during Jeff Ulbrich’s recruiting visit to the University of Hawaii in 1997. The couple had three children: Samantha, Jax and Jace.
Reporters from The Athletic on site in Atlanta did not see Ulbrich at the Falcons’ first training camp practices Tuesday and Wednesday. The organization’s statement did not indicate when he is expected to return to the team.
