In a major announcement, Tennessee Volunteers standout defensive end James Pearce Jr. has declared for the 2025 NFL draft. The dominant pass rusher elected to forgo his final season of eligibility in Knoxville and take his talents to the professional ranks. Pearce established himself as one of the nation’s most disruptive defenders over the past two seasons, terrorizing opposing offenses in the SEC.
Breakout Star for the Vols
The 6-foot-5, 243-pound edge rusher had a massive impact for a resurgent Tennessee program under head coach Josh Heupel. Pearce led the Volunteers in several key statistical categories in 2024:
- 7.5 sacks (team leader)
- 13 tackles for loss (team leader)
- 10 quarterback hurries (team leader)
His relentless pass rushing ability helped propel Tennessee to its first-ever College Football Playoff appearance in 2024. Although the Vols ultimately fell to Ohio State in a hard-fought semifinal matchup, Pearce was a key reason why they finished 7th nationally in scoring defense and 8th in tackles for loss.
Heralded NFL Draft Prospect
NFL scouts and draft analysts have been enamored with Pearce’s upside and potential at the next level. ESPN’s Mel Kiper Jr. currently ranks the Tennessee product as the No. 23 overall prospect and 3rd-best outside linebacker in the 2025 draft class.
James Pearce Jr. is an absolutely electric pass rusher off the edge. His explosive first step, excellent bend, and relentless motor allow him to wreak havoc in opposing backfields. He has all the tools to be a difference-maker at the next level.
– Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN Draft Analyst
Pearce’s draft stock skyrocketed during a remarkable 2023 campaign when he racked up 10 sacks, 14.5 tackles for loss, 16 quarterback hurries, 2 forced fumbles, and an interception returned for a touchdown. The talented edge rusher earned first-team All-SEC honors in both 2023 and 2024.
Leaving a Legacy on Rocky Top
Pearce helped restore Tennessee to national prominence during his time in Knoxville. He was a cornerstone of the Vols’ fearsome defensive front over the past two seasons. For his collegiate career, the star defender totaled 19.5 sacks and 29.5 tackles for loss.
While his departure undoubtedly leaves big shoes to fill, Pearce’s legacy with the Tennessee program is firmly cemented. The pass rushing specialist was a semifinalist for the Bednarik Award, Lombardi Award, and Walter Camp Player of the Year honors in 2024.
As James Pearce Jr. embarks on his professional journey, his future looks exceedingly bright. The dynamic edge rusher possesses the talent to be an immediate impact player at the NFL level. Whichever franchise selects him in the 2025 draft will be adding a potential game-wrecker to its defensive arsenal. Pearce’s combination of speed, power, and relentless pursuit should translate well to the pro game.
While Tennessee faithful will certainly miss seeing No. 10 flying off the edge in Neyland Stadium, they’ll undoubtedly be cheering Pearce on as he chases down NFL quarterbacks on Sundays. This is likely just the beginning of a special professional career for the Volunteer State’s newest defensive star turned coveted draft prospect.
