Atlanta Falcons Draft Focus: James Pearce Jr. of the Tennessee Volunteers
Tennessee Volunteers star defensive end James Pearce Jr. declared for the NFL Draft last month.
Having earned All-SEC honors the last two years, Pearce is projected to be a first-round pick in this year’s draft via ESPN’s Mel Kiper. At the beginning of the season, Kiper would have him in the Top 5, but for now, he is projected as a Top-23 pick.
The Atlanta Falcons have the 15th pick this year, and It is no secret that the team is in desperate need of an edge rusher who can disrupt opposing offenses and get pressure on QBs.
The Falcons find themselves in a peculiar situation if the need to trade up in the draft presents itself. Names like Kyle Pitts, Kirk Cousins and Matthew Judon are all up in the air, so these names could be used to put a package together to go the veteran route or build through the draft.
Atlanta has been notorious for signing players past their prime over the years. Time will tell which route the team takes. So, what would the Falcons get by drafting James Pearce Jr.?
Pearce Jr. is a versatile, speed rusher who can disrupt plays at an alarming rate. He is considered the top edge rusher in the draft behind Penn State’s Abdul Carter. Pearce Jr. has size at 6-foot-5, 243 pounds. The stats were down slightly in 2024, but Pearce still managed 7.5 sacks during the campaign.
He will have the opportunity to prove any naysayers wrong at the NFL Combine. Some speculate that he would be better suited as a late first-round pick.
The Atlanta Falcons are focusing on bolstering their defense in the upcoming 2025 NFL Draft, with particular interest in James Pearce Jr., a standout edge rusher from the Tennessee Volunteers. Pearce has been a prominent figure in mock drafts, frequently projected as a first-round pick for the Falcons.
Player Profile: James Pearce Jr.
- Height: 6’5″
- Weight: 242 lbs
- Position: Defensive End/Edge Rusher
Pearce is celebrated for his impressive athleticism, explosive speed off the edge, and natural pass-rushing abilities. His quick first step and fluid movement enable him to effectively pressure quarterbacks, making him a valuable asset in disrupting opposing offenses.
Strengths:
- Explosive Speed: Pearce exhibits a rapid burst off the line of scrimmage, allowing him to outpace offensive tackles and apply consistent pressure on quarterbacks.
- Pass-Rushing Techniques: He possesses a diverse array of pass-rushing moves, including an effective rip move and the ability to convert speed into power, enhancing his effectiveness against various offensive linemen.
- Agility and Bend: Pearce demonstrates the agility to bend around the edge, maintaining balance and momentum to close in on quarterbacks efficiently.
Considerations:
While Pearce’s athleticism and pass-rushing skills are highly regarded, there are considerations regarding his size and run defense capabilities. At 242 pounds, he is lighter than some of his peers, which may impact his ability to consistently set the edge against the run. Teams will need to assess whether he can add functional mass without compromising his explosiveness or if he can be utilized effectively in a role that maximizes his pass-rushing prowess while mitigating potential run defense limitations.
Fit with the Atlanta Falcons:
The Falcons have a pressing need to enhance their pass rush, having recorded one of the lowest sack totals in the league during the previous season. Pearce’s ability to generate pressure off the edge aligns with this need, offering the potential to significantly elevate the team’s defensive performance. His selection would address a critical area of concern and could provide an immediate impact on the Falcons’ defense.
In summary, James Pearce Jr. presents a compelling option for the Atlanta Falcons in the 2025 NFL Draft. His exceptional pass-rushing abilities and athletic traits make him a prospect worth considering to strengthen the Falcons’ defensive front.
