An ideal spot for Pearce.
Mel Kiper Jr. is back today with his latest mock draft ahead of the 2025 NFL Draft, which is now just a few weeks away. The veteran draft analyst went with a two-round projection this time, but he only needed one (barely) to project Tennessee pass rusher James Pearce.
The electric edge prospect just snuck into the first round, landing with the Super Bowl champion Philadelphia Eagles.
32. Philadelphia Eagles: James Pearce Jr., EDGE, Tennessee
The defending Super Bowl champs lost some key parts of their defense in free agency, including edge rusher Josh Sweat. Being able to get after the quarterback is important for Vic Fangio’s defense, and there’s a glaring void now on the edge. There are mixed opinions around the league on whether Pearce is a first-rounder, but he has the traits to develop into a speedy disruptor in the right system. He had 17.5 sacks over the past two seasons and ranked second in the nation in pressure rate last season (19.0%). (ESPN)
Despite the elite athletic traits, teams have concerns about Pearce being able to hold up on all downs with his light frame. Pearce checked in at 6-5, 245 pounds at the NFL Combine, posting a 4.47 in the 40 yard dash. His ten-yard split checked in at an elite 1.56, and his broad jump was measured among the top 20 percent all-time.
Pearce figures to be an immediate situational player, and sliding into the SEC-heavy Eagles’ front seven certainly makes a lot of sense. The Detroit Lions also have a need for an edge rusher at the end of the first round. Just slightly further down at No. 35 sits the home state Tennessee Titans, who recently just cut pass rusher Harold Landry. Perhaps the Titans can keep Pearce close to home while filling a big need of their own.
The NFL Draft is set for Thursday, April 24th and will run through Saturday, April 26th. ESPN, ABC and NFL Network will have the coverage.