Falcons pick James Pearce Jr in NFL draft first round: Highlights, stats, scouting report

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Edge rusher James Pearce Jr. was picked 26th overall by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2025 NFL draft. The pick originally belonged to the LA Rams, who traded out of the first round, leaving Atlanta to pick Pearce. Here’s what to know about Pearce.

James Pearce Jr draft profile, scouting report​

Pearce was one of the most productive edge rushers in the SEC behind his ridiculous burst, length and athleticism. His lean frame may struggle against the run setting the edge but the effort to chase down runners is there. — Ayrton Ostly

Pearce is probably the fastest edge rusher in this draft (4.47 in 40). But at Tennessee, he had a lot more QB hurries than sacks. That showed he needs work finishing tackles and bending toward the quarterback. There are questions about whether he’s an every-down player or just a dominant pass rusher. That may depend on how he’s used. Pearce was adept at dropping into coverage, so he could be intriguing as an outside linebacker in a 3-4 scheme. Pearce has top-10 talent. But doubts of whether he can reach his ceiling would be a factor in why he could drop to the late first round or early second round. — Adam Sparks

James Pearce Jr stats​

Pearce played in 39 games over three seasons for Tennessee. He finished with 71 tackles, 29.5 TFLs, 19.5 sacks, one INT, three passes defended, three forced fumbles and a fumble recovery.

James Pearce Jr height, weight​

Pearce is listed at 6-foot-5, 245 pounds.

Where is James Pearce Jr from?​

Pearce is from Charlotte, N.C.

James Pearce Jr high school, highlights​

Pearce went to Chambers High School.

James Pearce Jr Tennessee highlights​

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: James Pearce Jr draft: Stats, highlights for Falcons' first-round pick

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