FLORHAM PARK, N.J. — The enthusiasm Jeff Ulbrich has for coaching emerged from a pivotal experience on the field, particularly with the player who succeeded him in the San Francisco 49ers lineup. Ulbrich, a seasoned linebacker with the 49ers, mainly played special teams as he backed up the rising star Patrick Willis, drafted by the 49ers in 2007.
“I was more like a supporter of Patrick Willis,” Ulbrich said with a grin, reflecting on his time as an assistant in mentoring the young player. He fondly remembered the many moments they shared watching game tape and practicing together. One memory stood out vividly: during a game against Arizona, Ulbrich witnessed Willis execute a big play. “He looks right at me,” Ulbrich recalled. “It was something we’d practiced all week, and that moment felt better than any personal accomplishment I had.” It was a defining moment that solidified his desire to coach.
After his playing career came to a premature end in 2009 due to a concussion that limited him to just four games, Ulbrich transitioned into coaching—a career path he had never anticipated. “I used to think, ‘Why would I want to do that?’” he mentioned, characterizing the exhaustion he observed on coaches’ faces during a week’s grind. However, the experiences he gained alongside Willis were transformative.
Ulbrich’s journey as a coach began with roles on Pete Carroll’s Seattle Seahawks staff and Jim L. Mora’s UCLA program. When Dan Quinn became the head coach of the Atlanta Falcons in 2015, he appointed Ulbrich as linebackers coach. During the 2020 season, the Falcons underwent a coaching change, similar to the recent restructuring of the Jets, which led to Ulbrich now stepping up as interim head coach following Robert Saleh’s firing after a rough start to the season.
In the wake of the coaching shift, Ulbrich quickly established himself as a leader, and players noticed his unique approach. “Being a player-turned-coach, he’s super relatable,” stated Jets cornerback Isaiah Oliver, who had previously played under Ulbrich. “You can tell he’s destined to lead a team; it’s something you sense.”
Although Ulbrich wanted to assume this leadership role under different circumstances—especially considering his close relationship with Saleh—he now faces the challenge of revitalizing the Jets, a team still holding Super Bowl aspirations despite a disappointing 2-3 record.
Bills coach Sean McDermott expressed his respect for Ulbrich, who he knew during his time as an Eagles assistant. “I have great respect for him as a player and now as a coach, particularly how he has shaped the defense,” he noted.
After receiving the news of his new position, Ulbrich experienced a “whirlwind” first day, reaching out to coaching peers like Raheem Morris and Matt LaFleur for insight and guidance. “They have a deep understanding of what this role entails,” he emphasized.
This week, the mantra has revolved around “accountability,” as Ulbrich leads both coaches and players in a renewed effort to turn the season around. He made a significant move by appointing Todd Downing as the new play caller, a decision backed by quarterback Aaron Rodgers. “It was Brick’s decision, and I told him I’d support whatever he chose,” Rodgers remarked.
Having experienced in-season coaching changes during his playing days, Ulbrich acknowledges the complexities involved. “I’m grateful for the character within this locker room,” he said. “They could easily lose focus, but they’ve been outstanding.”
Mike White, who spent time with the Jets and worked with Ulbrich during practices, shared insights, saying that while Saleh did have his strengths, Ulbrich has proven capability to lead. “This isn’t anything new to him. He’ll smoothly step into this role and motivate the guys,” he added.
Ulbrich’s first major test as interim head coach arrives on a high-profile night, as the Jets prepare to face the Bills with an opportunity to tie for first place in the AFC East. “Coach Saleh was a fantastic leader, deeply respected in our locker room,” Oliver noted. “But Coach Brick brings a different, uplifted energy that we can rally around.”