Falcons rookie in spotlight after back-to-back scuffles as pre-draft red flags resurface

The Atlanta Falcons were enthusiastic about how the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft unfolded. However, they made a bold move by trading up for James Pearce Jr., a player with notable character concerns heading into the draft. The decision drew heavy criticism, particularly regarding what the team gave up to acquire him.

“This isn't about the player; it's about the price the Falcons paid to move up for him. Atlanta needed edge rush help and already got some earlier in the round with Jalon Walker. Trading next year's first-round pick to get Pearce felt like a massive overpay,” ESPN’s Dan Graziano said.

Pearce was a dominant force in college, routinely disrupting opposing offenses. Still, his off-field issues led to a slight draft slide. Former Tennessee Vols writer Wes Rucker called him one of the steals of the draft.

“There aren't 25 players better than James Pearce Jr. in this draft. If he grows up and behaves like a professional, that's a steal of a pick. But he'll have to grow up in Atlanta. So ... we'll see,” Rucker posted.

However, after the third day of training camp on Sunday, those character concerns resurfaced. Pearce was involved in two scuffles during practice.

“Rookie James Pearce Jr. was the main character today. He set off two scrums on back-to-back plays — the first going at it with Ryan Neuzil and Matthew Bergeron (who had some words), and the second with Kaleb McGary,” wrote Adnan Ikic of The Falcoholic.

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During media availability, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich commented on the defense's intensity that day — a remark that may have been indirectly aimed at Pearce.

“We're trying to develop a culture. And part of that is the violence. Today, it went a little too far,” Ulbrich said.

There’s no denying Pearce’s immense talent, but as a rookie, he can’t afford to get into repeated altercations with teammates. One incident can be brushed off; three separate conflicts raise red flags. Pearce is clearly trying to earn playing time, but there are better ways to prove himself than through on-field fights.