Cristina Ulbrich, the wife of Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, has died following a battle with cancer. She was 48.
The Falcons announced her death on July 31, remembering the mother of three as a devoted wife, parent and friend whose strength touched the organization and those who knew her.
Jeff was absent from the opening days of Atlanta’s training camp while remaining with his family. He and Cristina met during his 1997 recruiting visit to the University of Hawaii and later welcomed daughter Samantha and sons Jax and Jace.
The Falcons Announce Cristina Ulbrich’s Death
The Atlanta Falcons announced that Cristina had died after what the organization described as a courageous battle with cancer. The team remembered her for the “strength, grace, and resilience” she showed while supporting Jeff, their children and the broader Falcons community.
The organization extended its condolences to the family, asked that their privacy be respected and said it would stand beside them as they grieve. According to People, Cristina died on Thursday, July 30. Her specific type of cancer was not publicly disclosed.
Arthur Blank Remembers Cristina’s Courage
Falcons owner Arthur Blank shared a personal tribute and said Cristina would always remain an important part of the organization’s family. Blank directed his condolences to Jeff, Samantha, Jax, Jace and the rest of the Ulbrich family.
He remembered Cristina’s devotion to her loved ones and the steadfast support she gave them throughout Jeff’s playing and coaching careers. He also praised the courage and grace she demonstrated while facing cancer, describing the family she loved “so completely” as her greatest legacy.
The Falcons Promise to Support Jeff and His Children
Atlanta head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed Cristina’s death while speaking with reporters at training camp. He called the loss heartbreaking for the Ulbrich family, the Falcons organization and everyone who knew and loved Cristina.
Stefanski said the team would surround Jeff and his children with support and remain beside them in both the “short term and long term.” He added that Jeff would address reporters when he felt the time was appropriate.
Cristina Met Jeff During His Hawaii Recruiting Visit
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Jeff and Cristina met in 1997 when he traveled to the University of Hawaii during the college recruiting process. Jeff eventually joined the Rainbow Warriors and developed into one of the program’s leading defensive players.
During his senior season in 1999, the linebacker recorded 169 tackles, setting what was then Hawaii’s single-season record, and helped the team win the Western Athletic Conference championship.
Archival footage shared after Cristina’s death showed her near the sideline cheering for Jeff during that season. Their relationship continued through Jeff’s decade-long NFL playing career and his subsequent transition into coaching.
The Couple Shared Three Children
Jeff and Cristina became parents to daughter Samantha and sons Jax and Jace. The Falcons repeatedly emphasized Cristina’s devotion to her family while announcing her death, describing her as a constant source of love and support throughout the demands and frequent moves of Jeff’s football career.
The San Francisco 49ers selected Jeff in the third round of the 2000 NFL Draft. He spent his entire 10-season playing career with the team, appearing in 120 regular-season games before retiring after the 2009 season. He then moved into coaching, working with the Seattle Seahawks, UCLA, the Falcons and the New York Jets.
The 49ers and Jets Pay Tribute
The Ulbrichs will always be part of the 49ers family. Our deepest condolences to Jeff, his children, and all who loved Cristina. https://t.co/NoCATGJ3OU
— San Francisco 49ers (@49ers) July 31, 2026
The Falcons were joined by two other organizations closely connected to Jeff’s career. The San Francisco 49ers shared their condolences and said the Ulbrichs would always remain part of the franchise’s family.
The New York Jets also honored Cristina, remembering her warmth, strength and devotion to Jeff and their children. Jeff spent four seasons as the Jets’ defensive coordinator and served as interim head coach for the final 12 games of the 2024 season.
He returned to Atlanta as defensive coordinator before the 2025 season, having previously spent six years on the Falcons’ coaching staff.