Falcons’ Kevin Stefanski announces James Pearce Jr.’s expected return from suspension

The Atlanta Falcons have a big divisional game on tap against the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in Week 8, and have been missing linebacker James Pearce Jr . after an eight-game suspension handed down earlier this year. The Falcons' offense picked up the slack in a 29-20 win over the 49ers last week that led to a Jessie Bates endorsement of QB Michael Penix Jr. , but Pearce Jr. could still help in many ways.

Week 9 will bring a home game against Joe Burrow and the Bengals, a game coach Kevin Stefanski said could mark the return of Pearce Jr. to defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich's group.

"Stefanski said the plan is for James Pearce Jr. to play next week," reporter Marc Raimondi said.

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Pearce Jr. was a 2025 first round pick of Atlanta out of the University of Tennessee who has terrorized opposing quarterbacks when he's gotten on the field. He had 10.5 sacks last season with 26 tackles. He is also talented in pass coverage, recording five pass break-ups last season.

Pearce Jr. was arrested after a domestic violence situation stemming from his relationship with WNBA star Rickea Jackson . He has not played this season after his suspension was given, but could be back on the field soon for Stefanski's team, which is tied with the Carolina Panthers at 3-4 in the NFC South, 1/2 game ahead of the New Orleans Saints and Buccaneers.

The Buccaneers are the only team that has scored more points than they've given up in the division, which lends itself to a challenge this week that the Falcons will have to navigate without Pearce Jr.'s services.