Atlanta defensive end James Pearce Jr. will be suspended eight regular-season games in 2026, according to Adam Schefter of ESPN.
"ESPN source: Falcons DE James Pearce Jr. is being suspended eight regular-season games for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy," Schefter announced. "Pearce was arrested in February, in Doral, Florida, after a domestic dispute involving his ex-girlfriend, Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson."
The 6-foot-5, 243-pound former Vol was a rookie with the Falcons in 2025. He recorded 26 tackles, 10.5 sacks, five pass deflections and one forced fumble in 17 games last season.
Pearce Jr. played at Tennessee from 2022-24. He totaled 71 tackles, 29.5 tackles for a loss, 19.5 sacks, one interception, one touchdown, three pass deflections, three forced fumbles and one fumble recovery with the Vols.
Pearce Jr. was selected by Atlanta in the first round (No. 26 overall) of the 2025 NFL draft.
The Falcons will host Denver on Friday during Week 1 of the NFL preseason. Kickoff between Atlanta and the Broncos is scheduled for 7 p.m. EDT at Mercedes-Benz Stadium, in Atlanta, Georgia.
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This article originally appeared on Vols Wire: Former Vol will be suspended during 2026 NFL regular season
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