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Falcons DC Responds to Pearce Jr. Arrest News

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Falcons defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich expressed disappointment Wednesday over edge rusher James Pearce Jr.'s recent arrest in Florida. The rookie standout faces five felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking, stemming from an alleged domestic dispute with WNBA player Rickea Jackson.

Pearce, 22, was arrested after allegedly ramming his SUV into Jackson's car multiple times and hitting a police officer with his vehicle during a chase. The NFL has contacted the Falcons about reviewing the case under its personal conduct policy. The team stated it is gathering information while Pearce remains in legal proceedings.

As a rookie last season, Pearce set a franchise record with 10½ sacks, contributing to the Falcons' franchise-record 57 total sacks. His immediate future with Atlanta remains uncertain as the team's voluntary offseason program approaches in April. Head coach Kevin Stefanski declined to comment beyond the team's initial statement.