That player is James Pearce Jr., who Josh Kendall from The Athletic believes could be facing a minimum of at least eight games. James Pearce Jr. Could Face a Lengthy SuspensionDec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. (27) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect“I’m worried many Falcons fans aren’t prepared for the length of suspension James Pearce Jr. is going to get,” Kendall said. The Falcons Face The Biggest Blow in the SituationDec 21, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. (27) against the Arizona Cardinals at State Farm Stadium. During his rookie season, Pearce finished with 10.5 sacks on the season and was a competitor for the rookie of the year award on the defensive side of the ball.