The Atlanta Falcons are entering a new era under head coach Kevin Stefanski. Atlanta kicked off their offseason program on Tuesday along with other NFL teams with first-year head coaches. One Falcons player revealed his message to his teammate who is not present for the start of the team’s offseason activities.
Falcons safety Jessie Bates III shared the message he sent to teammate James Pearce Jr. after his recent arrest.
“Just letting him know he’s not alone during this tough time,” Bates said on Wednesday per ESPN’s Marc Raimondi. “James is not just a teammate, he’s a brother to us.”
Bates added that “of course” he and his teammates would love to have Pearce back in the locker room with them.
Pearce is not with the Falcons after his recent legal issues. The 22-year-old edge rusher faces four charges, including three felonies. Pearce allegedly crashed his vehicle into another car that was driven by his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson. His trial hearing is currently scheduled for May 4th in Miami-Dade County.
Atlanta traded up to select Pearce with the 26th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He flashed potential as a rookie, logging 10.5 sacks during the regular season.
Bates also spoke about his future in Atlanta during the same interview.
The veteran safety is entering the final year of his current contract. He explained that he has not had any extension talks with the Falcons yet. But Bates did express an interest in continuing to play in Atlanta.
“I want to retire as a Falcon. My family loves it here,” Bates said, per The Athletic’s Josh Kendall.
The next major milestone for the Falcons is the 2026 NFL Draft. Atlanta’s first selection comes in the second round at 48th overall.
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