Falcons James Pearce Jr. Faces Potential 8+ Game Suspension

The Atlanta Falcons could be preparing to open the 2026 season without both of their 2025 1st-round picks, as DE James Pearce Jr. could be facing a lengthy suspension under the NFL’s Personal Conduct Policy.

The Athletic’s Falcons beat writer Josh Kendall believes Pearce could miss at least eight games and potentially more following his February arrest.

“I’m worried many Falcons fans aren’t prepared for the length of suspension James Pearce Jr. is going to get. I would expect the league to announce his punishment under the personal conduct policy before rosters are trimmed at the end of this month. It’s going to be at least eight games, in my opinion… I wouldn’t be shocked if it was more.”

Pearce was arrested in February and faces three felony charges stemming from the incident. While no suspension has officially been announced by the NFL, Kendall expects a decision to come before final roster cuts later this month.

Atlanta also appears to be preparing for the possibility of beginning the season without Pearce. He has worked primarily with the 3rd-team defense during training camp, although he did receive some opportunities with the 1st and 2nd teams on Saturday. Something to watch for.

Falcons Could Lose Both 2025 1st-Round Picks

A lengthy Pearce suspension would be an even bigger blow after Atlanta already lost LB Jalon Walker for the season with a torn ACL.

The Falcons used 1st-round picks on Walker and Pearce in 2025 with hopes of rebuilding their pass rush around the young duo, as they combined for 16 sacks as rookies.

Now, Walker is already done for the 2026 season, and Pearce could potentially miss half the regular season or more.

An 8-Game Suspension Would Also Cost Pearce $446,664

The potential punishment would be costly for Pearce as well.

At approximately $55,833 in salary per game, an eight-game suspension would cost him around $446,664. An even longer suspension would push that number higher.

For now, the Falcons are still waiting for an official decision from the NFL.