Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. arrived at Atlanta’s facility on Monday to complete a physical examination before the start of the team’s mandatory minicamp this week.
The 22-year-old had been absent from the Falcons’ voluntary spring workouts because of off-field legal matters.
Atlanta is scheduled to hold its minicamp Tuesday through Thursday, marking the last formal team gathering before training camp begins next month under head coach Kevin Stefanski.
Pearce Jr.’s absence this spring stems from felony charges connected to a domestic dispute with his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson. The incident occurred on February 7 in Miami. Before his trial on three felony counts could proceed, Pearce agreed in May to enter a diversion program.
The program runs for one year under a judge’s supervision. If Pearce successfully completes the terms, he will be eligible to petition to have all charges cleared from his record.
On the field, Pearce Jr. made a strong impression in his debut season, pacing the Falcons with 10.5 sacks and 16 quarterback hits. Atlanta made a significant investment to land him, trading up in the 2025 NFL Draft — surrendering a 2026 first-round pick — to select Pearce 26th overall.
