The Atlanta Falcons revealed on Sunday that Jax Ulbrich, the 21-year-old son of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, was behind a prank call made to NFL draft pick Shedeur Sanders during the 2025 NFL Draft.
According to the Falcons’ statement, Jax stumbled upon Sanders’ draft contact number on an unlocked iPad while visiting his parents’ home. He noted the number and later gave it to a friend, who then placed the prank call. During the call, the unidentified friend posed as New Orleans Saints general manager Mickey Loomis and falsely told Sanders he had been selected by the Saints. The call took place Friday night during the second day of the draft, while Sanders was still waiting to be picked.
Shedeur Sanders, a standout quarterback from Colorado and son of legendary cornerback and Buffaloes head coach Deion Sanders, was eventually drafted in the fifth round by the Cleveland Browns. Despite the prank, he remained composed.
“It didn’t really have no impact on me… It was childish, but everybody does childish things here and there,” Sanders said after being selected on Saturday.
Jeff Ulbrich was reportedly unaware of the incident until after it occurred. The Falcons offered a formal apology to Sanders and his family, emphasizing that the organization does not condone such behavior. They also stated that they are reviewing their internal protocols to ensure a similar situation doesn’t happen again.
Jax Ulbrich issued a public apology on social media, calling his actions “inexcusable, embarrassing, and shameful.”
“Shedeur, what I did was completely inexcusable, embarrassing and shameful,” he wrote. “I’m so sorry I took away from your moment… Thank you for accepting my call earlier today. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.”
The Falcons confirmed they have been in communication with the NFL and will fully cooperate with any investigations related to the incident.
Meanwhile, Jeff Ulbrich expressed excitement over the team’s draft class, particularly their focus on defense. Atlanta used its top picks to select Georgia edge rusher Jalon Walker and Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr., among others, bolstering their defensive lineup. Ulbrich, who had previously served in Atlanta and returned after a stint as the New York Jets’ interim coach, will now look to help guide a revamped defense in the upcoming season.
