Edge rusher James Pearce Jr. will join the Atlanta Falcons for this week’s officially minicamp, ESPN’s Adam Schefter confirmed Monday. The 22‑year‑old returns after a February arrest on aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, stemming from an alleged vehicle ramming incident involving ex‑girlfriend WNBA guard Rickea Jackson. A Florida court approved a one‑year diversion program, allowing Pearce to still avoid trial.

Pearce recorded 10.5 sacks last season, setting a Falcons rookie record and finishing third in AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting. He will not speak to media during the two‑day camp, and coach Kevin Stefanski said the organization remains in close contact with Pearce’s legal team. NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy noted the case stays under review of the personal conduct policy.

The diversion program requires Pearce to avoid further legal trouble, pass random drug tests and comply with mental‑health treatment for a year, while also staying away from Jackson. If he meets those conditions, the felony charges will be dismissed. His participation gives the Falcons a proven pass‑rusher for a defense that struggled to generate pressure in 2025.