What happened: Atlanta Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski stated Friday that the team plans to add James Pearce Jr. to the active roster next week. The planned move will clear the linebacker for game action after he spent the early season working back into team activities.

Why it matters: Pearce has been working to rejoin the defense after entering an intervention program in April to resolve felony charges. His return provides Atlanta with additional depth along the defensive front as the coaching staff manages several defensive injuries.

What to watch: The Falcons will formalize the transaction during the upcoming practice week. Atlanta will evaluate Pearce's conditioning in practice before determining his availability for game day.