Atlanta Falcons defensive standout James Pearce Jr. is set to serve an eight-game suspension handed down by the NFL. The 22-year-old edge rusher, who led the team with 10.5 sacks during the 2025 season, is currently enrolled in a six-month diversion program. This legal path could result in the dismissal of multiple felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting an officer with violence, stemming from a February incident in South Florida involving Chicago Sky forward Rickea Jackson.
Following the Falcons’ 27-7 preseason loss to the Denver Broncos on Friday, head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the league’s decision. “Not going to comment on the length of the suspension or those types of things,” Stefanski stated. He emphasized that the organization trusts the established process and noted that Pearce continues to work hard on his personal development both inside and outside the team facility.
The team had anticipated the league’s disciplinary action, allowing them to prepare accordingly. “Obviously, we were anticipating a suspension, so we’ve been intentional about how we planned it,” the coach added. The suspension is scheduled to take effect on August 30, which permits Pearce to participate in the remainder of the preseason and continue training camp activities before he is required to remain away from the team building.
Stefanski confirmed that the team has a strategy in place for when the suspension begins. “He’ll continue to work and continue to play in these games and then when the suspension takes place, he’ll be away from the building. We’ll have a plan and he’ll have a plan as well. But just keep our head down and continue to work,” he said.
The suspension adds to a difficult start for the Falcons under Stefanski’s leadership. The team is already managing the loss of linebacker Jalon Walker, a fellow first-round pick who was recently ruled out for the season due to a torn ACL in his left knee. These defensive setbacks compound the challenges the team faces as they look to solidify their roster.
Offensive concerns also persist, particularly regarding the quarterback position. Michael Penix Jr. is currently recovering from a torn ACL, while Tua Tagovailoa, who is competing for the starting role, entered camp dealing with a back injury and struggled during Friday’s game. Third-string quarterback Cooper Rush also faced difficulties, throwing two interceptions, one of which was returned 97 yards for a touchdown.