#4 OverallEDGETop-10 Lock
James Pearce Jr.
Tennessee
Height6'5"
Weight245 lbs
Draft Status2026 Eligible
NFL CompVon Miller
Scouting Report & Film Evaluation
Explosive first-step get-off combined with ankle flexion and bend around the edge arc. Pearce is a nightmare for tackles in isolated 1-on-1 pass sets, converting speed to power with violent hand swipes.
Key Strengths
- First Step Explosiveness
- Ankle Flexion & Bend
- Pass Rush Repertoire
- Closing Speed
Areas for Development
- Must anchor against heavy double teams in run game
- Pad level on inside runs
Draft Projection & Valuation
Projected RoundTop 10 Pick
Draft WindowPick 1-10
Positional ValueTier 1 (Premium)
NFL Scheme & Roster Fit
James Pearce Jr. projects as an impactful EDGE at the NFL level with immediate starter upside. Organizations drafting in the top 10 that run modern, scheme-versatile setups will covet his combination of film execution and athletic traits.
The pro comparison to Von Miller underscores his ceiling: high football IQ, reliable technical consistency, and game-changing playmaking when the contest is on the line.
Defensive fronts needing edge bend, gap penetration, and fourth-quarter pocket collapse will prioritize him early on draft night.
