With suspension looming, Falcons list James Pearce Jr. as third-stringer

Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr., who entered a diversion program earlier this year to resolve multiple felonies arising from a February 2026 domestic violence incident, most likely will be suspended by the league before Week 1.

The Falcons, fully aware of what’s coming, have seemingly reflected Pearce’s status in the team’s initial depth chart of the 2026 preseason.

Pearce is listed as a third-stringer, behind Cameron Thomas and Azeez Ojulari. The other starting defensive end is Brandon Dorlus.

The placement surely isn’t a reflection of merit. As a rookie in 2025, Pearce had 10.5 sacks and finished third in the voting for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Pearce had been charged with felony aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, for allegedly ramming his ex-girlfriend’s vehicle with his car. He also faced felony charges of fleeing and eluding police and resisting an officer with violence, and a misdemeanor count of stalking.

The NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy applies a baseline suspension of six games for incidents of domestic violence. The league likely will announce a decision on Pearce’s punishment before Week 1.