James Pearce’s NFL Draft Stock Dips Ahead of Combine in Indianapolis

INDIANAPOLIS — Former Tennessee Volunteers EDGE rusher James Pearce Jr. is facing a decline in his NFL Draft stock as he attends the NFL Combine. Initially projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick, Pearce’s prognosis has shifted to a possible mid-to-late first-round selection.

As the Combine kicks off, discussions with NFL general managers reveal concerns about Pearce’s technique and instincts. ‘He doesn’t fight with his hands very well right now,’ one GM said. ‘You see the build and traits, his arm length, but he is winning with those traits alone.’ Additionally, GMs expressed worries regarding his ability to recognize and counteract blocks during run plays. ‘He has a hard time recognizing pullers and shrinking space in the run game,’ another source noted.

Despite these critiques, one NFL GM sought to dispel rumors of character concerns. ‘There are no character concerns that we are aware of. He wants to be great,’ the GM told Vols on SI.

The Combine is a time for prospects to showcase their skills to teams, and Pearce’s performance will be pivotal. He aims to show his athleticism and personality after previously being described as reluctant to engage with the media. ‘I wouldn’t say it discourages me,’ Pearce commented regarding his fallen stock. ‘I know that I’ve got to give it all I’ve got no matter what. I’ve got to roll the dice on myself.’

Many analysts, including Daniel Jeremiah and Bucky Brooks of NFL.com, have expressed varying levels of concern about Pearce’s draft eligibility, with some removing him from their first-round predictions. Jeremiah referred to Pearce as a ‘polarizing’ prospect. This uncertainty has led to questions about whether Pearce’s production at Tennessee impacted perceptions of him leading up to the draft.

In a sport where reputation can be easily swayed, many wonder if Pearce’s quiet nature during his college years has played a role in the shifting opinions ahead of the draft. ‘It’s just the fact that nobody knows,’ said another former Volunteers player turned analyst. ‘That’s what those 15-minute segment meetings with NFL teams are about. To get a chance to understand and know him.’

Pearce, who previously stood out as a potential first-round pick, now finds himself needing to prove himself in a way that goes beyond just physical skills. During a recent media session, he acknowledged the challenge and expressed a desire to engage more during the Combine. ‘I’m just going to be me,’ Pearce concluded. ‘Let them know I’m being genuine.’

As Pearce prepares to demonstrate both his athletic abilities and character, all eyes will be on him in Indianapolis. The coming days could redefine his prospects and clarify his NFL future.