FLOWERY BRANCH, Ga. — The Atlanta Falcons have been fined $250,000 for their involvement in a recent data breach that led to a prank phone call to rookie quarterback Shedeur Sanders during the 2025 NFL Draft. NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport confirmed that the fine stems from the Falcons’ failure to safeguard confidential information that was provided to them ahead of the draft.
According to a statement from the Falcons, the situation arose when Jax Ulbrich, the son of the team’s defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, found the phone number for Sanders on an open iPad while visiting his parents’ home. Jax later wrote down the number and decided to prank call him, which his father was unaware of until after the draft.
In addition to the team’s fine, Jeff Ulbrich has also been fined $100,000 for the incident. In a statement released by the Falcons, the organization expressed appreciation for the NFL’s quick investigation and acknowledged their responsibility in the matter. “We were proactive in addressing the situation internally and accept the discipline leveled against Coach Ulbrich and the organization,” they stated.
During an emotional press conference on Wednesday, Ulbrich publicly apologized to Sanders and his family for the prank call. “My actions — my actions — of not protecting confidential data were inexcusable,” he said. He also shared that he has taken full responsibility for the situation and vowed to improve moving forward.
Ulbrich stated that his main regret is that this incident overshadowed a productive weekend in which the Falcons selected four new defensive players, two of whom were edge rushers chosen in the first round. “There are so many amazing people in this building that did a fantastic job in this draft process, and it’s a shame this issue has taken away from their accomplishments,” Ulbrich remarked.
Looking ahead, Ulbrich emphasized that both he and his son will learn from their mistakes and work hard to ensure they do better in the future. “We have to take this on the chin. We absolutely are doing that,” he concluded, expressing hope that they will grow and improve as individuals and members of the Falcons organization.
As for the Falcons’ draft selections, the team focused on strengthening their defense, adding youthful talent to their roster. Now, with the draft concluded, the organization will continue its search for undrafted free agents to further enhance their team.
