History of James Pearce Jr. in Timeline

By Popular Timelines Editorial Team · Updated: April 24, 2026

James Cecil Pearce Jr. is an American professional football linebacker currently playing for the Atlanta Falcons in the NFL. He played college football at the University of Tennessee and was drafted by the Falcons in the first round of the 2025 NFL Draft. Pearce is a linebacker in the NFL.

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Full Timeline

October 12, 2003: James Pearce Jr. Born

On October 12, 2003, James Cecil Pearce Jr. was born. He would later become a professional football linebacker.

Others born on this day/year

2019: State Championship

In 2019, James Pearce Jr. helped lead his high school team to a North Carolina 4AA state championship.

2020: Second State Championship

In 2020, James Pearce Jr. helped lead his high school team to their second consecutive North Carolina 4AA state championship.

2022: Freshman Season at Tennessee

In 2022, as a true freshman at Tennessee, James Pearce Jr. played in all 13 games, recording five tackles and two sacks.

December 12, 2023: Charges Dropped

On December 12, 2023, James Pearce Jr.'s charges for speeding, driving on a suspended license, and other related misdemeanors were dropped. The license, insurance, and window tinting charges were dismissed, and the speeding charge was dismissed after Pearce paid costs of $278.

2023: Sophomore Year Success

During the 2023 season, James Pearce Jr. tied for the most sacks in the SEC with ten and recorded a 52-yard interception return for a touchdown in the Citrus Bowl against Iowa.

2025: NFL Draft and First Career Sack

In 2025, James Pearce Jr. was drafted by the Atlanta Falcons and in Week 2 recorded his first career sack against Vikings QB J. J. McCarthy.

2025: Drafted by the Atlanta Falcons

In 2025, James Pearce Jr. was selected by the Atlanta Falcons in the first round of the NFL draft.

February 7, 2026: Arrest in Florida

On February 7, 2026, James Pearce Jr. was arrested in Miami-Dade County, Florida, facing multiple charges including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, fleeing and eluding police officers, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, and resisting an officer.

2026: Offseason Workout Program

In 2026, Atlanta Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski announced that James Pearce Jr. was not participating in the voluntary offseason workout program due to ongoing legal issues.

2026: Falcons traded draft picks

In 2026, The Atlanta Falcons traded up with the Los Angeles Rams to pick Pearce, giving up the 2026 first-round pick as well as a 2025 third and 2025 seventh.