Falcons Reinstate James Pearce Jr. After Eight-Game Suspension

Pearce can return after completing an eight-game ban stemming from a breach of the NFL’s personal conduct policy. The Falcons made room for him on their 53-man roster by waiving defensive lineman Jared Ivey and releasing defensive end Drake Jackson. Both players could rejoin Atlanta’s practice squad, provided they pass through waivers and the team opts to bring them back.

Coach Kevin Stefanski said last week that Pearce was expected to play against Cincinnati, but that his workload was still undetermined. Stefanski said Pearce had done what the team asked of him and was in good shape to return.

Pearce was arrested in February following a domestic dispute and faced several charges. He entered a 12-month pre-trial program; under the agreement, the charges will be dismissed after he completes it. The agreement also requires him to avoid further legal trouble for six months and attend therapy sessions.

The Falcons are 3-5 and coming off a 16-0 loss to Tampa Bay in which they gave up 324 rushing yards. Pearce recorded 10.5 sacks as a rookie last season, and his return could strengthen a pass rush that ranks seventh in quarterback pressure rate. Atlanta faces the Bengals next, followed by games against the Chiefs, Vikings and Lions.