The Atlanta Falcons officially turned the page on the 2025 season and set the philosophical foundation for the next chapter on Wednesday, hosting a series of introductory press conferences for the three men who will command their units in 2026. In a clear signal of the franchise's direction, the team formally presented new offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, retained defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, and introduced new special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman to the media.
The sessions, held at the team's Flowery Branch headquarters, provided the first public glimpse into the strategic minds that will shape the Falcons' identity under the broader vision of head coach Kevin Stefanski and general manager Ian Cunningham. While Stefanski and Cunningham were not the focal point of the day, the selection and retention of this coordinator trio speaks volumes about the desired blend of continuity, fresh perspective, and specialized expertise for the coming campaign.
A New Architect for the Offense: Tommy Rees Takes the Reins
All eyes were on Tommy Rees, the young offensive mind tasked with revitalizing a Falcons attack that has shown flashes but lacked consistency in recent years. Rees, who arrives after a successful stint as a collegiate offensive coordinator and quarterbacks coach, addressed the media with composed confidence that belied his age.
His philosophical outline was clear: a marriage of physicality and precision. "The foundation of everything we do will be built on the run game," Rees stated. "We want to be a team that imposes its will, that can control the line of scrimmage and the tempo of the game. But that physical identity must open up opportunities in the passing game. We will be multiple in our formations and personnel groupings, but the goal is always the same: to be explosive, efficient, and unpredictable."
Rees emphasized adaptability as a core tenet, suggesting his system would be tailored to the strengths of the roster, particularly the quarterback. "It's not about forcing a square peg into a round hole," he explained. "It's about identifying what our players do at an elite level and building concepts that allow them to play fast and confident. For the quarterback, it's about creating clear reads, providing protection, and putting him in positions to succeed on every down." His comments will fuel speculation about the team's plans for the quarterback position this offseason, whether through development of existing personnel or new acquisitions.
The new offensive coordinator also highlighted the importance of situational football, pointing to red zone efficiency and third-down conversion rates as critical metrics for improvement. His detailed, process-oriented answers suggested a coach deeply immersed in schematic minutiae, ready to install a modern, demanding offense.
Continuity on Defense: Jeff Ulbrich's Mission Continues
In a move that provides crucial stability, the Falcons confirmed the retention of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich. His return signifies organizational faith in the defensive trajectory established over the past two seasons. Ulbrich's unit made significant strides in 2025, particularly in generating pressure and creating turnovers, and his press conference focused on building from that platform rather than resting on it.
"Continuity is a powerful tool in this league," Ulbrich said. "Our players understand the language, the expectations, and the standard. Now, the challenge is to elevate that standard. We took steps last season, but we are far from a finished product. The goal is a defense that is relentless, intelligent, and fundamentally sound for all four quarters."
Ulbrich spoke about evolving the scheme, not overhauling it. He mentioned a desire to incorporate more simulated pressures and versatile coverage packages to further confuse opposing quarterbacks. "We want to be multiple and disruptive. It starts up front with our pass rush setting the tone, but it extends to every level. Our linebackers need to be communicators and playmakers, and our secondary must have a ball-hawking mentality."
His retention is arguably the most significant news of the day for the defensive players. It allows for advanced installation in the offseason program and fosters an environment where young players can develop within a consistent system. Ulbrich's fiery, emotional connection with his players has been a hallmark of his tenure, and that energy was palpable as he discussed his vision for a top-tier defense.
Special Teams Overhaul: Craig Aukerman Brings a Proven Track Record
Completing the trio is new special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman, who brings a wealth of NFL experience to a unit in need of a jolt. Falcons special teams have been a mixed bag in recent years, and Aukerman's hiring signals a dedicated effort to transform the phase into a consistent weapon.
Aukerman, known for his detailed teaching and emphasis on fundamentals, laid out a straightforward yet ambitious goal. "Special teams is about hidden yardage and game-changing plays," Aukerman asserted. "It's about winning the field position battle every single week. That comes from disciplined coverage units, confident returners, and clutch kicking. We will drill the details until they are automatic."
He highlighted the importance of roster construction, noting that he has already begun discussions with the personnel department about identifying players with the athleticism and mindset to excel in the kicking game. "It's not an afterthought; it's one-third of the football game. We need, and we will have, starters who embrace their role on special teams. The effort and technique on those units will reflect the identity of our entire team."
Aukerman's history of developing effective return games and solid coverage units offers a blueprint for improvement. His pragmatic, no-nonsense approach suggests a unit that will be well-prepared and fundamentally tough, aiming to eliminate the costly errors that have plagued the Falcons.
A Cohesive Vision for 2026
While the three coordinators will operate in their own domains, a common thread emerged from the press conferences: a focus on discipline, situational mastery, and building a tough, resilient team identity. The decision to retain Ulbrich provides a pillar of stability, while the injections of Rees's offensive innovation and Aukerman's special teams expertise represent targeted upgrades.
The Falcons' 2026 season will undoubtedly be judged on wins and losses, but its character will be forged in the meeting rooms and practice fields led by this trio. Rees will be tasked with unlocking the offense's potential, Ulbrich with pushing the defense into the league's elite, and Aukerman with claiming the hidden yardage that often decides close contests.
For Falcons fans, Wednesday's press conferences offered more than just introductions. They provided a roadmap. The path forward features a physically imposing offense, an aggressive and evolving defense, and a detail-oriented special teams unit. The individual philosophies of Tommy Rees, Jeff Ulbrich, and Craig Aukerman are now official. The hard work of turning that philosophy into performance begins now.