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James Pearce Jr.

James Pearce Jr.

By Ethan Anderson| Reviewed by Olivia Bennett, Standards & Fact-Checking Lead| Updated July 26, 2026|2 min read| Fact-checked

James Pearce Jr. is an American professional football player who plays as an edge rusher for the Atlanta Falcons of the National Football League (NFL). He played college football for the Tennessee Volunteers and was selected by Atlanta in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Pearce was born in Charlotte, North Carolina.

Early life and high school career

James Pearce Jr. is from Charlotte, North Carolina. He attended Chambers High School in Charlotte before moving on to Tennessee.

College career

Pearce played for the Tennessee Volunteers and developed into one of the SEC's top pass rushers. He earned first-team All-SEC recognition.

Professional career

The Atlanta Falcons selected Pearce with the 26th overall pick in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. He entered the NFL as a defensive front player for Atlanta.

Playing style

Pearce is primarily known as a pass rusher, described as an EDGE or outside linebacker. His size and college production made him a high-profile draft prospect.

Key facts

  • Pearce played college football for the Tennessee Volunteers.
  • He was selected 26th overall by the Atlanta Falcons in the 2025 NFL Draft.
  • He is listed at about 6 ft 5 in and 242–245 lb.
  • He is a native of Charlotte, North Carolina.
  • His college position was EDGE or outside linebacker.

Frequently asked questions

Who is James Pearce Jr.?
He is an American football player for the Atlanta Falcons who played college football at Tennessee.
What position does James Pearce Jr. play?
He is listed as a linebacker or edge rusher, depending on the source.
Which college did James Pearce Jr. attend?
He played college football for the Tennessee Volunteers.
When was James Pearce Jr. drafted?
He was drafted in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft, 26th overall.
Where is James Pearce Jr. from?
He is from Charlotte, North Carolina.

References

  1. Wikipedia — https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/James_Pearce_Jr.
    Supports: Full name, birth date, birthplace, position, college, and 2025 NFL Draft selection by Atlanta
  2. ESPN — https://www.espn.com/nfl/player/_/id/5081394/james-pearce-jr
    Supports: Current team, listed position, height/weight, birth date, college, and draft information
  3. Atlanta Falcons — https://www.atlantafalcons.com/team/players-roster/james-pearce-jr/
    Supports: Roster listing and hometown/native of Charlotte, North Carolina
  4. NFL.com — https://www.nfl.com/players/james-pearce-jr/
    Supports: Current team, position, height/weight, age, college, and hometown
  5. Yahoo Sports — https://sports.yahoo.com/article/james-pearce-jr-tennessee-edge-045817766.html
    Supports: College production, high school background, and draft context