After years of being one of the NFL’s worst pass-rushing teams, the Atlanta Falcons finally turned things around in 2025. That was largely due to rookie edge rusher James Pearce Jr., who emerged as a surprise second first-round pick. Unfortunately, the Falcons may have to find his potential replacement next season.
Pearce is currently looking at a possible suspension from the NFL due to an ongoing legal situation involving his ex-girlfriend, Rickea Jackson. He is facing multiple felony charges, though those could be dismissed if he completes a therapy program, according to Andy Slater.
“Essentially, James Pearce’s case will be put on hold while he completes the pre-trial intervention. If conditions are met, charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police and resisting an officer with violence to his or her person will be dropped,” NFL insider Ian Rapoport said.
Meanwhile, the Falcons have yet to find any sort of contingency plan should Pearce be unavailable in 2026. Bleacher Report’s Kristopher Knox has floated one potential trade scenario that could address the issue.
Falcons Linked To Giants-Kayvon Thibodeaux Trade Idea
One pass rusher who continues to surface in trade speculation is New York Giants edge rusher Kayvon Thibodeaux. His name gained traction after the Giants selected Ohio State edge rusher Arvell Reese at No. 5 overall in this year’s draft, while also adding Brian Burns in 2024 and drafting Abdul Carter in the first round last year.
Thibodeaux, a former top-five pick, is entering the fifth-year option of his rookie deal in 2026, where he is set to earn $14.7 million, according to Spotrac. If the Falcons were to pursue a deal, it would likely come with the expectation of extending him.
“For one, the Giants would actually get something in return for a player they took fifth overall. Secondly, they could save $14.8 million by moving him. Lastly, trading Thibodeaux would allow Reese to begin developing on the edge immediately,” Knox wrote.
Knox proposed Atlanta sending a conditional 2027 fourth-round pick to New York in exchange for Thibodeaux.
Falcons Would Be Betting On Bounce-Back Season For Kayvon Thibodeaux
Thibodeaux is coming off a career-worst season. He finished 2025 with 25 total tackles, 2.5 sacks and two pass deflections, while missing the final seven games due to a shoulder injury. Over the past two seasons, he has missed a combined 12 games after posting a career-best 11.5 sacks in 2023.
That inconsistency presents a clear risk. However, if Thibodeaux can return to his 2023 form, he would be well worth the price of a conditional fourth-round pick.
The Falcons at least have former first-round pick Jalon Walker set to return. The former Georgia standout recorded 5.5 sacks, nine quarterback hits and two forced fumbles last season.
Beyond Walker, returning defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich will look to generate pressure with players like Zach Harrison, Brandon Dorlus and Troy Andersen.
Still, if Pearce is unavailable, adding a proven edge rusher like Thibodeaux could quickly become a priority for Atlanta.
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