Falcons' James Pearce Jr. Listed as Third-Stringer Amid Suspension Concerns

James Pearce Jr., a defensive end for the Falcons, is currently listed as a third-string player on the team's depth chart as he faces a potential suspension related to felony charges from a domestic violence incident earlier this year.

Pearce entered a diversion program to address multiple felonies stemming from an incident in February 2026, which included charges of aggravated battery and stalking. The Falcons have acknowledged the situation by placing him behind Cameron Thomas and Azeez Ojulari on the depth chart, with Brandon Dorlus as the other starting defensive end.

Despite his previous performance, where he recorded 10.5 sacks as a rookie in 2025 and was a contender for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year, Pearce's current status reflects the league's Personal Conduct Policy, which typically enforces a minimum six-game suspension for domestic violence incidents. An official announcement regarding his punishment is expected before the start of the season.