The NFL has fined the Atlanta Falcons $250,000 and defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich $100,000 following a prank name incident involving Ulbrich’s son, Jax, in the course of the 2025 NFL Draft. Jax Ulbrich, 21, impersonated New Orleans Saints GM Mickey Loomis in a name to quarterback prospect Shedeur Sanders, falsely informing him he was about to be drafted. The prank occurred whereas Sanders was live-streaming, including to the general public embarrassment as he ultimately slid to the fifth spherical, chosen by the Cleveland Browns at choose No. 144
The NFL cited the Falcons’ failure to stop the disclosure of confidential data as the explanation for the fines. Jax obtained Sanders’ cellphone quantity from an unsecured iPad belonging to his father. Though Jeff Ulbrich was unaware of the prank, the league held him accountable for not safeguarding delicate knowledge.
The Falcons issued an apology to Sanders and his household, stating they don’t condone such conduct and are reviewing their safety protocols. Jax Ulbrich additionally publicly apologized, expressing deep remorse for his actions.
This incident has raised considerations about knowledge safety inside NFL organizations, particularly because the league continues to interact with the rising sports activities playing business. Analysts warn that such breaches might result in extra vital scandals if not addressed promptly.
Regardless of the incident, Jeff Ulbrich stays in his place as defensive coordinator, and the Falcons retain their draft picks. The workforce has dedicated to implementing group service initiatives as a part of the response to the incident.
Shedeur Sanders had a standout profession at Jackson State College below his father, head coach Deion Sanders. As a freshman in 2021, he threw for over 3,200 yards and 30 touchdowns, incomes the Jerry Rice Award as the highest freshman in FCS soccer. In 2022, he elevated his recreation additional, main the Tigers to an ideal common season and a second straight SWAC Championship look. Identified for his poise, accuracy, and management, Sanders grew to become a face of HBCU soccer throughout his time at JSU. He transferred to Colorado in 2023, following his father’s transfer to the Buffaloes program.
