Atlanta Falcons Apologize for Prank Call Incident Involving NFL Draft Pick
Atlanta, GA – The Atlanta Falcons have publicly addressed a prank call incident involving their defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich’s son. The Falcons confirmed that 21-year-old Jax Ulbrich inadvertently obtained the contact details of NFL draft pick Shedeur Sanders while visiting his parents and later decided to make a prank call.
In a statement, the Falcons clarified that while Jax wrote down the number, it was actually a friend sitting next to him who made the call. The team expressed regret, extending apologies to Sanders and his family, and noted that Jeff Ulbrich was unaware of the situation until after it occurred. Jax Ulbrich also took to social media to apologize for what he described as a “tremendous mistake.”
Shedeur Sanders, known as a talented quarterback from Colorado and son of Pro Football Hall of Famer Deion Sanders, received the prank call during the NFL draft. On the second day of the draft, as he awaited his selection, a friend of Jax pretended to be New Orleans Saints general manager Mickey Loomis, falsely informing Sanders that he had been drafted.
Despite the childish prank, Sanders responded with grace, stating, “I don’t feed into negativity… Of course, I feel like it was a childish act, but everybody does childish things here and there.”
In his apology, Jax Ulbrich reflected on the impact of his actions, saying, “I completely messed with that moment… I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.”
The Falcons reiterated their stance against such behavior and are reviewing their protocols to prevent future incidents. The team remains in communication with the NFL and will cooperate with any inquiries related to this matter.
Additionally, the Falcons focused on strengthening their defense during the NFL draft, selecting two edge rushers among their first choices. Jeff Ulbrich, who previously served as an assistant with the Falcons, has returned to lead the defense after a stint as interim coach with the New York Jets.
The franchise aims to learn from this incident, emphasizing professionalism as they move forward.
