James Pearce Jr. Returns to Falcons Roster Ahead of Madrid Game

Defensive end back after eight game suspension

James Pearce Jr. returned to the Atlanta Falcons roster on Monday after serving an eight game league suspension. Head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed that the 23 year old defensive end is set to play on Sunday when Atlanta meets the Cincinnati Bengals in Madrid.

Pearce was suspended by the NFL at the end of training camp for a violation of the personal conduct policy. The suspension followed a February domestic violence arrest in Doral, Florida. Pearce allegedly rammed his vehicle into a car driven by his ex girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson, before fleeing from police and crashing his car.

He avoided a trial on felony battery and misdemeanor stalking charges by entering a one year pretrial diversion program. If Pearce abides by the rules of the program, stays away from Jackson, passes random drug tests, and completes mental health treatment, those charges will be dropped.

Stefanski said Pearce has fulfilled all requirements asked of him so far. Although Pearce returned to team facilities four weeks ago for counseling and individual meetings, he was not allowed to practice. He is expected to participate in his first team practice on Wednesday. Stefanski added that the coaching staff has not determined how many snaps Pearce will play on Sunday.

Roster moves and defensive depth

To make room for Pearce, Atlanta received a one week roster exemption and waived linebacker Jared Ivey and defensive end Drake Jackson on Monday.

Pearce was productive as a rookie last season, recording 10.5 sacks and finishing third in voting for AP Defensive Rookie of the Year. The Falcons defense maintained a strong pass rush during his absence. Atlanta enters this week ranked seventh in the league with a 40% quarterback pressure rate.

Stefanski expressed confidence in adding Pearce to a group that includes defensive ends Za'Darius Smith and Cameron Thomas, along with interior linemen Gervon Dexter Sr., Maason Smith, and Brandon Dorlus. Smith leads Atlanta with 4.5 sacks this season.

Stefanski also ruled out defensive end Samson Ebukam for Sunday due to a hamstring injury. Defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich said he met with Pearce and noted that the defensive end looks to be in a good place both physically and mentally.

What it means for the next game

The Falcons travel to Madrid for Sunday's matchup against Cincinnati. Here is what the betting numbers show for the contest:

Cincinnati Bengals at Atlanta Falcons (NFL, Sun, 08 Nov): Atlanta Falcons win 39%, Cincinnati Bengals win 61%; projected score Atlanta Falcons 24, Cincinnati Bengals 28. Our safest pick: Under 59.5 points.