ATLANTA — The NFL has suspended a Atlanta Falcons linebacker for eight games following his arrest in February.
Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. faces the suspension after being arrested following an alleged dispute involving WNBA player Rickea Jackson, authorities previously said.
The Falcons selected Pearce with the No. 26 pick in the 2025 NFL draft.
During the 2025 regular season, he led Atlanta with 10 1/2 sacks. His 45 quarterback pressures also set a franchise rookie record.
Officials say Pearce will be able to play in the Falcons’ preseason opener at Mercedes Benz Stadium on Friday.
He would be eligible to return in Week 9 when the Falcons face the Cincinnati Bengals in Madrid.