“Selfish and childish”: Jeff Ulbrich’s son Jax apologizes for prank call to Shedeur Sanders during NFL Draft 2025

The 2025 NFL Draft took an unexpected turn when Shedeur Sanders became the target of a cruel prank call. Now, Jax Ulbrich, son of Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, has admitted responsibility and issued a public, heartfelt apology.

In a dramatic turn of events during the 2025 NFL Draft, the son of Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has come forward to admit he was behind the prank call made to quarterback Shedeur Sanders. Jax Ulbrich, 21, issued a heartfelt apology via Instagram on Sunday, owning up to the prank that added unnecessary stress to what should have been one of the most memorable nights of Sanders’ life.
"On Friday night, I made a tremendous mistake," Ulbrich wrote. "Sheduer [sic], what I did was completely inexcusable, embarrassing, and shameful. I'm so sorry I took away from your moment, it was selfish and childish. I could never imagine getting ready to celebrate one of the greatest moments of your life and I made a terrible mistake and messed with that moment. Thank you for accepting my call earlier today, I hope you can find it in your heart to forgive me."

The apology came after speculation online hinted at Jax’s involvement. His public confession has now confirmed those rumors.

Not long after Jax posted his apology, the Atlanta Falcons organization issued a statement of their own, making it clear that they took the situation seriously. The franchise distanced itself from Jax’s actions, reinforcing its commitment to professionalism and respect for all players entering the league.
The NFL had already launched an investigation into the incident, which gained widespread attention. During the second day of the draft, Sanders received a call from someone falsely posing as an NFL general manager. For Sanders, who had been projected by many to go in the first round but instead slid to the fifth, the cruel prank only added salt to an already difficult experience.
Shedeur Sanders wasn’t the only prospect affected by prank calls during the 2025 NFL Draft. Reports indicate that Penn State tight end Tyler Warren and a third, unnamed player were also targeted. However, it remains unclear who was behind those additional calls.
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While Jax Ulbrich’s apology and direct contact with Sanders might begin to close this unfortunate chapter, the broader issue of respect for players during life-changing moments remains front and center. As the NFL continues its investigation, many hope this serves as a reminder that moments like draft night should be celebrated, not sabotaged.