NFL Network’s Ian Rapoport reports that Falcons DE James Pearce Jr. will not attend the start of the team’s voluntary offseason program due to ongoing legal issues, including three felony charges for aggravated battery with a deadly weapon. The 21-year-old, a former two-time first-team All-SEC selection from Tennessee, was drafted 26th overall by the Falcons and is projected to sign a four-year contract worth approximately $16.8 million. In the 2025 season, Pearce played all 17 games, recording 27 tackles and 10.5 sacks. Further updates on Pearce’s situation are expected.
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James Pearce Jr. Absent from Offseason Program Start
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