Falcons May Need Veteran Help After James Pearce Jr. Uncertainty

The Atlanta Falcons have a good chance of improving their defense in 2026. Those are some big shoes to fill, as last year they were one of the best teams in the NFL in pass rush and against the run. 

But as defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich potentially looks to pursue a head coaching opening next offseason, his hopes for improving the defense have only strengthened. 

But if they want this defense to be just as good as last year, if not better, they will have to find a way to replace production on the defensive line, potentially. 

The Atlanta Falcons continue to await the decision of what will happen with edge rusher James Pearce Jr. when it comes to his status for this upcoming season. Pearce was arrested back in February and is facing multiple felony charges. A former finalist for Defensive Rookie of the Year is likely to face discipline from the NFL when he does return. It is fair to assume he will not be playing the full 2026 season, if at all. 

This is a massive hit to the Falcons' defense, as Pearce Jr. led the squad with 10.5 sacks in 2025 and played in all 17 games. Although he only started in three, he still showed his value as a valuable asset to the team, and it's something Atlanta must replace before the season begins. 

According to NFL.com, there are still six edge rushers available in free agency among the top 101 NFL free agents of 2026. Atlanta needs to find a way to bring at least one of these players in to compete for starting snaps. 

Joey Bosa, who comes in at number 47 on the list, is considered the best edge rusher still available in NFL free agency. After his long career with the Los Angeles Chargers, Bosa played one year with the Buffalo Bills and proved to be a quality pickup overall. 

Another former Buffalo Bills player still on this list is AJ Espenesa, who sits at number 53. This is someone who can easily sit as a solid depth piece inside the Falcons organization, not cost too much money when it comes to the salary cap, and a player who could easily fit the system of Jeff Ulbrich.

Hassan Reddick, the 31-year-old, comes in at number 70. Although he didn't have his best year in Tampa Bay, he's had a great career over his 10 years. This might be a low-risk, high-reward signing because it's been a few years since he's been able to produce at a premier level fully. 

A familiar face and possibly a polarizing figure for the Atlanta Falcons is former New Orleans Saints edge rusher Cameron Jordan. Jordan, like Pearce Jr. in 2025, recorded 10.5 sacks. The 37-year-old is still looking, potentially, for another shot at the NFL. Could it be with an NFC South rival? He comes in at 75th on the list of the best free agents available in 2026. 

Kyle Van Noy ranked 95th, and Jadavian Clowney ranked 101st; both also appear on the list. These are older players who have shown strong upside and reliable careers across multiple teams. Not only could these pickups add value on the defensive front for Atlanta, but they could also provide a strong locker room presence under a brand-new head coach and a brand-new front office regime.