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James Pearce, Jr. | EDGE | Tennessee

Height: 6’5″
Weight: 243 lbs
Draft Projection: Mid 1st
Notable Accomplishment: 2024 AP Second Team and Coaches First Team All-SEC

Pros: Pearce fell short of expectations in 2024, but he still managed to lead the SEC with 52 pressures, which is an incredible number. He finished the season with 7 sacks and 13 tackles for loss, but his presence was felt in the backfield much more often than that. Pearce’s lightning quick get-off makes him difficult for any lineman to contain one-on-one, as most linemen cannot react quick enough to consistently block his path to the quarterback. His ability to disengage from blocks has allowed him to make more key tackles as a run defender, and his instincts as a pass rusher may be his most effective asset of all. At nearly 6’5″, Pearce also possesses the length NFL teams desire on the edge, which gives him the upper hand in winning the battle for leverage. His length also comes in handy in the rare occasions he drops into coverage. He has fluid hips and looks natural dropping into zone coverage.

Cons: Pearce’s biggest concern as a prospect lies in his run defending ability. He has found a way to dominate tackles with inferior athletic talent, but unless he gets stronger at the point of attack, NFL tackles will push him around like a ragdoll. There were even times down the stretch this season when Pearce would get pushed back almost immediately off the snap, because he only trusts his speed and agility and cannot win with strength. His slighter frame also limits him to a 3-4 defense, at least until he gets strength in both his upper and lower body.

Overview: After 10 sacks in 2023, Pearce was projected to lead the country in sacks in 2024 and become a top-3 pick, but he simply did not have a record-setting season. He was still lethal, but not to the level it would have taken for him to be in consideration for the #1 overall pick. With a strong combine performance, I believe he could still sneak inside the top 10, but either way, Pierce will be able to provide his team with explosiveness and tenacity, while also bringing with him a strong work ethic.

NFL Comparison: Brian Burns