Falcons announce death of Cristina Ulbrich, wife of DC Jeff Ulbrich, following cancer battle

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Cristina Ulbrich, the wife of Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, has died after a battle with cancer. The Falcons announced the news in a statement on Thursday.

"The Atlanta Falcons are heartbroken by the passing of Cristian Ulbrich, beloved wife of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, after her courageous battle with cancer," the statement read. "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."

The team did not say whether Ulbrich would be taking time off from the team, but asked for the Ulbrich family's "privacy to be respected as they grieve this profound loss."

The Ulbrichs have three children together, per the Falcons' website: a daughter, Samantha, and two sons, Jax and Jace.

Jeff Ulbrich joined Atlanta as their defensive coordinator ahead of last season, after spending five years in the Falcons' defensive staff earlier in his coaching career. Prior to returning to Atlanta, Ulbrich coached four seasons with the New York Jets, including a stint as their interim head coach to end the 2024 season.

The Jets also released a statement in response to Cristina Ulbrich’s death.

“The New York Jets are heartbroken by the passing of Jeff Ulbrich's wife, Cristina, after her courageous battle with cancer. Cristina will be remembered for her warmth, strength and unwavering devotion to her family. We extend our deepest condolences and love to Jeff, their children and all who knew and loved her,” the team wrote.