The Atlanta Falcons are hoping they have finally found stability at defensive coordinator with Jeff Ulbrich. The 2025 season will mark the third straight year that Atlanta will have a new defensive play caller.
Ulbrich joins the Falcons after spending the last four seasons with the New York Jets, where he served as defensive coordinator and later as interim head coach following Robert Saleh’s firing. Now back in Atlanta, where he previously coached from 2015-2020, Ulbrich aims to revamp a defense that has struggled in recent years.
Beyond his coaching expertise, Ulbrich may also bring something else with him from New York—players. The Falcons are expected to be aggressive this offseason in upgrading their defense, whether through the draft or free agency. ESPN’s Matt Bowen believes one potential target should be Jets free agent linebacker Jamien Sherwood, calling him a “best fit” for Atlanta.
Sherwood could follow new Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich from New York to Atlanta. A three-down linebacker who is trending up at this stage of his career, Sherwood posted 154 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and three pass breakups with the Jets last season. He can play downhill with speed, cutting off the ball and pursuing the edges. The Falcons need playmakers on defense.
– Matt Bowen, ESPN
There’s no doubt the Falcons are in desperate need of defensive playmakers. Outside of cornerback A.J. Terrell, safety Jessie Bates III, and linebacker Arnold Ebiketie, the roster lacks proven talent on that side of the ball.
Sherwood, coming off his rookie deal with the Jets, could be a cost-effective addition for Atlanta. His market value is projected at $7.2 million per year, according to Spotrac, making him an affordable option for a team in need of defensive upgrades. However, with the Falcons currently sitting at nearly $9.5 million over the cap, they’ll need to restructure contracts or make roster moves before pursuing Sherwood or any other free agents.
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