Jax Ulbrich’s prank call to Shedeur Sanders will cost two six-figure fines.
On Wednesday, the NFL fined the Falcons $250,000 and Jax’s father, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, $100,000 for prank calling Sanders on Friday.
The league cited “failing to prevent the disclosure of confidential information distributed to the club in advance of the NFL Draft.” The team had previously said that Jax Ulbrich noticed a league-issued number for Sanders on his father’s iPad.
“We appreciate the NFL’s swift and thorough review of last week’s data exposure and the event that transpired due to it,” the Falcons organization said in a statement Wednesday. “We were proactive in addressing the situation internally and cooperated fully with the league throughout the process, and accept the discipline levied to Coach Jeff Ulbrich and the organization.
“We are confident in our security policies and practices and will continue to emphasize adherence to them with our staff whether on or off premises. Additionally, the Ulbrich family is working with the organization to participate in community service initiatives in relation to last week’s matter.”
Sanders, projected by some as a first-round pick, eventually went to the Cleveland Browns in the fifth round.
The prank call can be seen In a video captured by Well Off Media—a YouTube channel run by Sanders’ older brother Deion Jr.— where the former Colorado quarterback is seen holding the phone to his ear and listens as Ulbrich’s friend identifies himself as Saints GM Mickey Loomis, about to pick at No. 40, and says “We’re gonna take you with our next pick right here, man.”
“Yes sir, let’s be legendary,” Sanders replied.
“But you’re gonna have to wait a little bit longer, man,” the pranksters replied. “Sorry about that.” The call ended leaving Sanders and those around him confused at what had just happened. Ulbrich and his friend also posted their own video of the prank.
The Falcons did not discipline Ulbrich for his son’s actions.
Texas wide receiver Isaiah Bond, Penn State tight end Tyler Warren (drafted No. 14 by the Colts), and Bills sixth-round selection Chase Lundt were among other players pranked during the draft, but Jax Ulbrich wasn’t behind those cases, a Falcons spokesperson previously told Front Office Sports.
ESPN also reported Wednesday that No. 3 pick Abdul Carter received a prank call when the Jaguars were on the clock at No. 2 overall.
