Former Tennessee EDGE rusher James Pearce Jr. is looking to cap off his standout rookie season with one of the NFL’s top honors. On Thursday, the Associated Press named Pearce as one of the five finalists for the Defensive Rookie of the Year award for the 2025-2026 football season.
Pearce’s first-year competition includes New York Giants linebacker Abdul Carter, Seattle Seahawks defensive back Nick Emmanwori, Cleveland Browns linebacker Carson Schwesinger, and Atlanta Falcons safety Xavier Watts.
Pearce recorded 10.5 sacks on the season, which was the most among all rookie players. His total was also the most in the NFL since Micah Parsons in 2021. Pearce’s ability to pressure the quarterback helped the Falcons achieve a franchise-high team sack number with 57 on the season.
The finalists for AP Offensive Rookie of the Year and Defensive Rookie of the Year presented by @EAMaddenNFL! #NFLHonors pic.twitter.com/vHXnJXguen
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When the 2025 NFL Draft rolled around last May, the Falcons made a shocking move to trade away their 2026 first-round pick and two 2025 picks to move up to No. 26 overall and take Pearce. This move also came after Atlanta had already taken Georgia EDGE rusher Jalon Walker with the 15th overall pick. The move was heavily criticized by analysts, such as one ESPN analyst calling it a “massive overpay.”
But with an impressive showing in all 17 games this season, Pearce proved the doubters wrong. Atlanta went into the draft wanting to improve its ability to rush the passer, and Pearce was a gigantic part of that success. He was clearly worth the risk and the future resources, showing that he can and is an impact player in the league.
Pearce ended the season with 26 total tackles, 17 solo tackles, 10.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and five pass deflections.
Despite his statistics, though, Pearce may have an uphill climb to reach the Defensive Rookie of the Year award. He’s second in the betting markets to win, but there’s a large gap between him and Schwesinger for the top projection.
The winners will be announced on Feb. 5, during the NFL Honors ceremony at 9:00 p.m. ET on NBC and the NFL Network.
James Pearce Jr. played in 39 games during his three seasons at Tennessee. During that span, he racked up 71 tackles, 19.5 sacks, 29.5 tackles for loss, one pick six, three forced fumbles, and one fumble recovery.
