What happened: The NFL imposed the unpaid penalty under its personal conduct policy following the dispute involving WNBA player Rickea Jackson. In April, Pearce entered a pretrial intervention program to resolve three felony charges; his attorneys said successful completion would lead to dismissal.

Why it matters: Atlanta must The discipline extends the case's impact into Pearce's second NFL season.

By the numbers: Pearce recorded 10.5 sacks, 45 quarterback pressures, 26 tackles and 16 quarterback hits across 17 games in 2025. His pressure total set an Atlanta rookie record.

What to watch: Atlanta's plan to redistribute edge snaps will come into focus before Week 1. Pearce becomes eligible to return for the ninth regular-season game.

Sources