The NFL has handed down an eight-game suspension to Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. The 22-year-old, who led the team with 10.5 sacks during the 2025 season, is currently participating in a six-month diversion program. This legal step is intended to resolve 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 his ex-girlfriend, Chicago Sky forward Rickea Jackson.
Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the league’s decision following the team’s 27-7 preseason loss to the Denver Broncos. “Not going to comment on the length of the suspension or those types of things,” Stefanski stated, adding that the organization trusts the established process. He noted that Pearce continues to work hard on his personal development both inside and outside the team facility.
The suspension is scheduled to take effect on August 30. This timeline allows Pearce to remain active through the rest of the preseason and continue participating in training camp. “Obviously, we were anticipating a suspension, so we’ve been intentional about how we planned it,” Stefanski explained. Once the suspension begins, Pearce will be required to remain away from the team building.
Stefanski emphasized that the team is preparing for his absence. “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,” the coach said.
The loss of Pearce is the latest setback for the Falcons, who are already navigating a challenging start to Stefanski’s first season. The team previously lost linebacker Jalon Walker, another first-round pick, for the year due to a torn ACL. Defensive depth remains a primary concern for the coaching staff as they look to fill the roles of these key players.
Offensive concerns also persisted during the preseason opener. The quarterback competition has been hampered by Michael Penix Jr.’s recovery from a torn ACL. Meanwhile, Tua Tagovailoa struggled while managing a back injury, and third-stringer Cooper Rush faced difficulties, throwing two interceptions, one of which was returned 97 yards for a Denver touchdown.
30, which allowed Pearce to play on Friday night and the remainder of the preseason and work in training camp.
Yet until the league issued its verdict, it was unclear exactly how much time Pearce would miss.
In other words, play now and sit when the games matter.
