Cristina Ulbrich, wife of Falcons DC, passes away after cancer battle

FLOWERY BRANCH — Cristina Ulbrich, the wife of Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, passed away Sunday after a long battle with cancer, the organization announced in a press release Thursday night.

Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the passing of Cristina Ulbrich, 48, in a minute-long press conference before the team’s training camp practice Friday.

“This is a difficult time for the Ulbrich family, it’s a difficult time for the Falcons family. It’s a difficult time for everybody who knew and loves Cristina. So, we, like any family, we will support Jeff and the kids, and we’ll put our arms around him and the kids, literally, and as an organization.

“I’ll let Jeff address you guys when the time is appropriate, and he can share his thoughts, but just so you guys know, we’re obviously with him and the kids in the short term and in the long term. So we’ll make sure that we put our arms around them.

”So, I think it’s appropriate to — let’s talk football after practice. I’ll catch you guys after that, but just want everybody to know how we feel, and it’s heartbreaking. And we’ll make sure that we are family through all of this."

The Falcons released an official statement Thursday night.

“The Atlanta Falcons are heartbroken by the passing of Cristina Ulbrich, beloved wife of defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich, after her courageous battle with cancer.

“Cristina was a devoted wife, mother, and friend whose strength, grace, and resilience touched all who knew her. She was a constant source of love and support to Jeff, their family, and the broader Falcons community.

“On behalf of the entire organization, we extend our deepest condolences to Jeff, their children, and all who loved Cristina. During this incredibly difficult time, our thoughts and prayers are with the Ulbrich family.

“We ask that their privacy be respected as they grieve this profound loss, and we stand with them in support and remembrance of Cristina’s life.”

Before the announcement, Ulbrich missed the first two days of Falcons training camp for what the team described as a personal matter.

Falcons owner Arthur Blank also released a statement Thursday night.

“Cristina will always be an important part of our Falcons family. My heart is with Jeff, Samantha, Jax, Jace and the entire Ulbrich family during this unimaginable time.