UCLA defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich has been hired as linebackers coach by the Atlanta Falcons, according to a person close to the situation who asked to remain anonymous.

The departure leaves the Bruins in a lurch with recruit Roquan Smith, who announced he would attend UCLA but backed off his commitment upon hearing that Ulbrich might leave the Bruins program.

Smith, a linebacker at Macon County High in Georgia, cited Ulbrich as a big reason for his decision not to sign a letter of intent Wednesday, the first day high school football players can sign. UCLA and Georgia were thought to be Smith’s top choices for college.

Fox Sports had reported Wednesday that Ulbrich had agreed to take a job with the Falcons.


Ulbrich has been a UCLA assistant for three seasons under Coach Jim Mora. He was promoted to defensive coordinator last winter.