In their search for their next defensive coordinator, the Dallas Cowboys requested permission to speak with Jeff Ulbrich of the Atlanta Falcons. Dallas was hoping that after Atlanta fired head coach Raheem Morris, Ulbirch would become available, but the Falcons swiftly denied the request despite searching for their new head coach.

Now that the Falcons have hired former Browns’ HC Kevin Stefanski, the team wasted no time in getting their staff put together. Ulbrich will remain with the team and continue to serve as the defensive coordinator in Atlanta. Dallas hoped to get a chance to interview Ulbrich but must now turn their attention to their other remaining candidates, none who have the experience Ulbrich possessed.

We have retained Jeff Ulbrich as defensive coordinatorhttps://t.co/fTV4eOUuOMpic.twitter.com/uUJ9gpkjdG

— Atlanta Falcons (@AtlantaFalcons) January 19, 2026

Ulbrich does not have a coaching connection with Cowboys head coach Brian Schottenheimer, putting to bed a perception that Dallas only hires people they know, but he does have experience with one of their assistants.

Ulbrich and Cowboys defensive line coach Aaron Whitecotton worked together under the staff of former Jets head coach Robert Saleh during the 2021-2024 seasons. His addition may have allowed for less defensive staff turnover which now rests with whomever they hire as the new defensive coordinator.

Both men also spent time with Cowboys defensive tackle Quinnen Williams who was acquired by Dallas with some of the draft capital acquired from the Micah Parsons trade.

The Broncos Jim Leonhard, Philadelphia’s Christian Parker, Minnesota’s Daronte Jones, and former Cardinals head coach Jonathan Gannon remain the likeliest candidates to replace the departed Matt Eberflus.

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This article originally appeared on Cowboys Wire: Cowboys DC search narrows after Falcons retain Jeff Ulbrich