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Kevin Stefanski Issues Update on Suspended Falcons Defender

Kevin Stefanski provided an update on this key Atlanta Falcons defender who is closing in on a return from an eight-game suspension.

By Owen Crisafulli · Heavy

Published: Friday, 30 October 2026 at 6:39 PM

Key Things to Know

Kevin Stefanski confirmed James Pearce Jr. is expected to play in Week 9 following his eight-game suspension.
Pearce will serve the final game of his suspension during Atlanta's Week 8 matchup against Tampa Bay.
The NFL suspended Pearce following a February arrest in Miami involving aggravated battery and stalking charges.

The Story in 60 Seconds

Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski announced that defensive end James Pearce Jr. is expected to play in Week 9 once his eight-game suspension concludes. Pearce is serving the final game of his ban in Week 8 as the Falcons prepare to face the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

The NFL suspended Pearce for eight games following his February arrest in Miami on charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking. Selected 26th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, Pearce recorded 10.5 sacks as a rookie.

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Kevin Stefanski Issues Update on Suspended Falcons Defender

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