Jax Ulbrich Apologizes for NFL Draft Prank on Shedeur Sanders: What Really Happened?
One of the biggest nights of Shedeur Sanders’ young football career took an unexpected — and painful — turn during the 2025 NFL Draft. What should have been a celebration was tainted by a prank that quickly went viral, and now the person responsible, Jax Ulbrich, has finally stepped forward to own up to his mistake.
Here’s everything you need to know about this unexpected drama.
What Was the Prank That Shocked the NFL World?
On what should have been one of the happiest moments of his life, Shedeur Sanders received a phone call he thought was from an NFL general manager ready to draft him. Imagine the excitement — only to realize shortly after that it was all a cruel joke.
According to multiple reports including The Associated Press, the call was made by Jax Ulbrich, the 21-year-old son of Atlanta Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich. Jax impersonated a general manager, making Sanders briefly believe his NFL dreams were finally materializing.
The truth quickly unraveled, turning excitement into heartbreak for Sanders — who eventually was drafted much later than expected, falling to the fifth round.
Who Is Jax Ulbrich and Why Did He Do It?
Jax Ulbrich is a college student-athlete at Berry College in Georgia, where he plays running back for the school’s football team. He’s currently majoring in business and, like many his age, is active on social media. Unfortunately, this time it backfired in the worst way.
In a heartfelt apology posted to Instagram on Sunday afternoon, Jax admitted to making a “tremendous mistake.”
“Shedeur, what I did was completely inexcusable, embarrassing, and shameful,” Ulbrich wrote. “I’m so sorry I took away from your moment.”
He went on to describe the prank as selfish and childish, adding that he had personally called Shedeur earlier that day to apologize directly.
How Has the NFL and the Falcons Organization Responded?
The NFL had already launched an investigation into the incident before Jax’s public confession confirmed his role. The league is reportedly looking into whether any draft rules or player protocols were violated, according to ESPN.
Meanwhile, the Atlanta Falcons quickly issued a statement distancing themselves from the prank. Though Jax has no official role with the Falcons, the family connection naturally drew media attention to the team.
The Falcons made it clear that Jax’s actions were independent and not in any way affiliated with the organization or their operations.
How Did Shedeur Sanders React?
Incredibly, Shedeur Sanders showed a lot of maturity in the aftermath.
While fans were outraged on social media, Sanders accepted Jax Ulbrich’s apology after a personal phone call between the two. That speaks volumes about Shedeur’s character — staying poised even when someone tried to steal his special moment.
Still, it’s impossible to ignore the impact. Already facing the emotional rollercoaster of slipping down the draft board, being the victim of a prank like this only added more salt to an already painful night.
What Is the Lasting Impact of This Incident?
For Shedeur Sanders, this prank will likely be a footnote in a much larger, successful NFL career — one that is only just beginning. However, it’s a reminder of how fragile and important these moments are for young athletes.
As for Jax Ulbrich, he’ll have to live with the consequences of a joke gone too far. While his public apology is a step in the right direction, regaining trust — especially in the sports world — will take time.
Both young men are still early in their journeys, and hopefully, this incident becomes a learning moment for everyone watching.
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