UCLA football: Jeff Ulbrich officially resigns as defensive coordinator

UCLA made official what everyone knew for days, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has resigned to become the linebacker coach for the Atlanta Falcons.

“I would like to thank Coach Ulbrich for everything he has done for UCLA football over the past three years,” Coach Jim Mora said in a prepared statement. “The hard work he put in on a daily basis was surpassed only by his dedication to helping develop our student-athletes both on and off the field. It was a pleasure working alongside him and watching him develop as a coach, and I anticipate nothing but success for him in the future.”

UCLA will begin a search for a new defensive coordinator.

Ulbrich spent three seasons with the Bruins, two as linebacker coach and one as defensive coordinator. He helped develop linebackers Anthony Barr (Minnesota Vikings) and Jordan Zumwalt (Pittsburgh Steelers), as well as Myles Jack, who will be a junior at UCLA this season.

Word of the Falcons’ interest in Ulbrich surfaced Wednesday soon after Macon County (Ga.) High linebacker Roquan Smith announced he would sign with UCLA. Smith, who cited Ulbrich as a big reason for his decision, did not file his letter of intent. He reopened his recruitment, though UCLA is believed to still on his list.