Jets Talk: Notable Quotes from Defensive Coordinator Jeff Ulbrich at OTAs

Third-year DC spoke about Gang Green's OTAs participation, Aaron Rodgers' wide-reaching effect and more

© Charles LeClaire-USA TODAY Sports

The National Football League's fourth-ranked defense returns the key pieces that powered its ascension last season and its leader is optimistic moving forward.

New York Jets' third-year defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich spoke to reporters following a Phase 3 OTAs practice, complimenting the group for its offseason work ethic.

"The way they work on a daily basis, the attention to detail, the strain, the finish, it couldn't be any better especially this time of year," said Ulbrich.

Next, he highlighted the strong player attendance for voluntary organized team activities.

"Our rate of people showing up just to participate in this non-mandatory time of year, it’s been exceptional,” said Ulbrich, who played 10 seasons, all with the San Francisco 49ers, as an NFL linebacker.

Ulbrich addressed the effect that Aaron Rodgers' arrival has had on the team. 

"He’s exceptional," said Ulbrich. "His impact on this team, and especially these younger players, is gonna be felt for the remainder of all their careers. To see a guy not just have the talent that he has, but the preparation, the process."

Rodgers, a four-time NFL MVP, has acted differently compared to some of what Ulbrich has experienced in the past. 

"I’ve been around a lot of superstars in this league that are standoffish, that are very isolated, do their own thing," said Ulbrich. "He’s as inclusive as I’ve ever been around, especially for a player of that caliber. Constantly giving us feedback about what he sees on us defensively."

Ulbrich gave an early positive review of 2023 first-round draft pick Will McDonald.

"He’s got the right mindset, I know that. He comes out here and works his butt off every day," said Ulbrich.

The Jets surprised the majority of draftniks by making McDonald the No. 15 overall selection in Round 1, but the explosive pass rusher possesses unique physical traits.

"He’s got some freakiness to him from an athletic standpoint," said Ulbrich. "He definitely has some stuff you can’t coach."

DE Will McDonald at Jets' OTAs on May 31 in Florham Park / © Jonathan Jones-USA TODAY Sports

As for the edge rusher that the Jets selected in Round 1 at the 2022 NFL Draft, Jermaine Johnson is working toward improving from his rookie season with the Green & White. The Florida State product made 14 appearances, accounting for 29 combined stops and 2.5 sacks last year.

"He is in such a better place this year," said Ulbrich. "He understands exactly what he wants to get accomplished and, more importantly, he understands how to get that accomplished."

The 6-foot-5 Johnson has noticeably matured according to the Jets' defensive coordinator.

"Seeing him work out here, it’s not just a guy straining and flailing and working hard," said Ulbrich. "There's a deliberate approach to every drill that he has. I’m excited about what he could become."

DE Jermaine Johnson during a May 31 practice drill / © Chris Pedota, NorthJersey.com

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