After a whirlwind National Signing Day on February 4 that saw the UCLA football team claim one of their best recruiting classes in recent history, news broke that UCLA defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich had accepted a position as linebackers coach with the Atlanta Falcons. Though not official, it was bad timing as the Bruins were looking to secure a solid class of high school players that not only had a relationship with Ulbrich, but were coming to Westwood solely because of him.
Well now it is official, Ulbrich is heading to Atlanta.
UCLA Defensive Coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has not taken any other coaching position.
— Bruin Report Online (@BruinReport) February 4, 2015
As news broke, UCLA fans were trying to figure out what exactly was going on and why the information was coming out just before noon on National Signing Day.
That afternoon, head coach Jim Mora had gave the details about the situation, saying that nothing had been confirmed, but that the Ulbrich was considering taking the position.
Jim Mora at his press conference said that Dan Quinn offered Jeff Ulbrich the LB job yesterday, and he's contemplating it.
— Bruin Report Online (@BruinReport) February 5, 2015
Mora said he's going to "fight tooth and nail" to keep Ulbrich.
— Bruin Report Online (@BruinReport) February 5, 2015
Well just a little while ago, news broke from Bruin Report Online that made the rumors official, Ulbrich is heading to Atlanta as linebackers coach.
Breaking: Jeff Ulbrich leaves UCLA. More info about DC candidates and a hire timeframe...as Roquan Smith waits: http://t.co/RUQJkVaGUe
— Bruin Report Online (@BruinReport) February 7, 2015
A lot of speculation had many wondering who would take over the defensive coordinator spot if Ulbrich did leave and a name that was thrown around was that of former USC and Cal defensive coordinator, Clancy Pendergast. Though the process has just begun, you can be sure more names will emerge as the weekend progresses.
Stay with Go Joe Bruin as we bring you the latest on the UCLA defensive coordinator search.
Also, good luck in the League coach! It was great having you here for the Bruin Revolution!