Falcons Fined After Draft Prank Call Targets Shedeur Sanders

Shedeur Sanders' reaction to being selected in the NFL Draft by the Cleveland Browns was overshadowed by an unusual incident. The Atlanta Falcons and their assistant coach, Jeff Ulbrich, faced penalties from the NFL following a prank call targeting Sanders during the draft.

The NFL imposed a $250,000 fine on the Falcons and a $100,000 fine on Ulbrich for failing to prevent the disclosure of confidential information. This stemmed from a prank orchestrated by Ulbrich's son, Jax, who obtained Sanders' phone number.

Jax Ulbrich, 21, reportedly accessed Sanders' number from an open iPad belonging to his father and the team. Sanders, a University of Colorado player, was anticipated to be drafted earlier but ultimately went to the Browns in the fifth round.

The prank call occurred during a livestream event hosted by Sanders on the second day of the draft. The caller, impersonating the New Orleans Saints' general manager, initially indicated the Saints would select Sanders. The caller then retracted the statement, leaving Sanders and others confused. Sanders expressed his surprise, stating the number was private.

The Falcons facilitated an apology from Jax Ulbrich to Sanders. Jax publicly apologized, calling his actions inexcusable. The Falcons stated Jeff Ulbrich was unaware of the situation until after it occurred. The team does not intend to take further disciplinary action against Jeff Ulbrich.

In response to the NFL fines, the Falcons acknowledged the league's review and stated they cooperated fully. They accepted the penalties and emphasized their commitment to security policies. The Ulbrich family will participate in community service initiatives related to the incident.

CBS Sports reported that other prank calls were made during the draft, but they are not believed to be connected to the Sanders incident.