By Sunday 
A Rising Defensive Force in the 2024 NFL Draft
James Pearce Jr. has emerged as one of the most intriguing edge rushers in this year’s draft class. His combination of explosive speed, length, and raw pass-rushing ability makes him a coveted prospect for teams looking to bolster their defensive front. While he’s not a finished product, his upside is undeniable, and franchises in need of a high-impact pass rusher will be watching him closely.
Strengths: A Dynamic Pass-Rusher
Pearce’s biggest asset is his ability to disrupt opposing quarterbacks. He posted a 19% pressure rate, the second-highest in college football last season, proving his knack for consistently getting into the backfield. Over the last two years, he amassed 17.5 sacks and 28 tackles for loss against elite SEC competition, showcasing his relentless motor and ability to capitalize on blocking weaknesses.
NFL analyst Lance Zierlein praised Pearce’s explosiveness, noting that he has a “tight-hipped, linear pass rush” but compensates with his incredible burst off the line. His speed-to-power conversion is another standout trait, allowing him to overwhelm offensive tackles who struggle with his quick first step.
Weaknesses: Room for Growth in the Run Game
While Pearce is a nightmare for quarterbacks, his effectiveness against the run remains a concern. His frame is long but narrow, which raises questions about whether he can add significant bulk without losing his agility. Additionally, his base is naturally narrow, affecting his ability to anchor against powerful offensive linemen in run defense.
Zierlein also pointed out that Pearce “lacks bend to flatten at the top”, meaning he struggles to dip and bend around the edge in the way that elite pass rushers like Myles Garrett or Von Miller do. Improving his lower-body flexibility and refining his hand technique will be crucial for him to reach his full potential.
NFL Fit: Where Does Pearce Belong?
Teams looking for a pure pass rusher will be highly interested in Pearce, particularly those that already have solid run defenders but need a speed-based disruptor. The Detroit Lions could be a great fit, as they have Aidan Hutchinson and Marcus Davenport but lack a truly explosive speed rusher. Pearce would provide a different pass-rushing element, forcing opposing tackles to adjust between power and speed threats.
NFL media analyst Daniel Jeremiah ranks Pearce as the 22nd-best player in the draft, while ESPN’s Field Yates is even higher on him, placing him at No. 19. There’s a consensus that Pearce is a first-round talent with high upside, despite some areas that need refinement.
Pearce’s Mindset: Ready to Prove Himself
Despite the critiques, Pearce remains confident in his abilities. At Tennessee’s Pro Day, he made his goals clear:
“Just keep showing that I’m the best edge and best defender in this draft and keep putting it out there that I’m one of the best players in the draft, if not the best.”
That level of confidence, paired with his undeniable production, ensures that teams will be keeping a close eye on him as draft day approaches. With the right coaching and development, Pearce has the potential to become a dominant force in the NFL.