The son of Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has confessed to being part of the prank calls that marred a portion of the 2025 NFL Draft.
The Falcons said Sunday that 21-year-old Jax Ulbrich “unintentionally came across” the draft phone number of former Colorado quarterback Shedeur Sanders on an open iPad and then used it to conduct a prank call Friday. The younger Ulbrich and his friends pretended to be Saints GM Mickey Loomis, suggesting Sanders was going to be the team’s next pick.
New Orleans instead picked quarterback Tyler Shough and defensive tackle Vernon Broughton that day. The Browns later selected Sanders in the fifth round, adding to a crowded quarterback room for the team.
The Falcons apologized to Sanders and his family, as did Jax Ulbrich, who spoke with Shedeur Sanders on the phone.
“On Friday night, I made a tremendous mistake. Shedeur, what I did was completely inexcusable, embarrassing, and shameful,” Jax Ulbrich said in a statement. “I’m so sorry I took away from your moment, it was selfish and childish. I could never imagine getting ready to celebrate one of the greatest moments of your life and I made a terrible mistake and messed with that moment. Thank you for accepting my call earlier today. I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me.”
The league said it was looking into the call. ESPN reported that Colts first-round tight end Tyler Warren also received a prank call, and that it is believed other prospects did as well. No discipline has been imposed on Jeff Ulbrich, but the Falcons said they are “thoroughly reviewing all protocols, and updating if necessary, to help prevent an incident like this from happening again.”
“People are morons,” said Browns head coach Kevin Stefanski. “I mean, it’s sad that these young men have to deal with this.”
