NFL Draft 2025: Why did the Falcons make the trade up for James Pearce Jr.?
In a questionable move in the first-round of the 2025 NFL Draft, the Atlanta Falcons traded up from No. 46 to No. 26, surrendering picks No. 46, No. 242, and a 2026 first-round pick to the Los Angeles Rams.
The move came in order to select Tennessee defensive end James Pearce Jr. — a talented player, no doubt, but one who comes at an absurd cost, especially considering the Falcons had already drafted edge rusher Jalon Walker at No. 15 earlier in the same round.
Like 2024, the Falcons have made a trade which, on paper, seems to make little sense. Is there any way to spin it other than another dreadful team-building decision?
Is this more draft malpractice from Atlanta?
The Falcons’ front office has once again left fans and analysts baffled with their draft strategy. After selecting Michael Penix Jr. early in 2024, they compounded their drafting uncertainty by trading up for edge rusher James Pearce Jr., despite having already drafted Jalon Walker at the same position earlier in the round.
This move not only depletes their draft capital for this year and next, but also raises questions about their roster-building philosophy. With other talented edge rushers still on the board, such as Mike Green and Donovan Ezeiruaku, the urgency to trade up seems misplaced given who would be available on day two.
While the Falcons did acquire pick No. 101 in this year’s draft as part of the trade, this minor gain does little to justify the significant future assets they surrendered. Moreover, by investing so heavily in one position group, the Falcons are neglecting other areas of need, such as the offensive line or secondary, which could have been addressed with the picks they gave up. For many, this trade is yet another example of the front office’s malpractice, showcasing a lack of strategic planning and a lack of focus on addressing all needs on their roster.
Concerns about Pearce despite ability
Adding to the perplexity of this trade are the concerns surrounding Pearce’s character. League insiders have voiced apprehensions about his maturity and ability to adapt to the NFL environment, which includes reports from his college days indicate a pattern of disciplinary issues, such as conflicts with coaches and teammates.
Nonetheless, Pearce’s raw, freakish ability on the edge is truly exceptional, with an explosive first step that leaves blockers scrambling and a rare blend of speed and power that overwhelms opponents. His natural talent suggests he could become a game-changing presence if properly developed. And ultimately, the Falcons have completely revolutionised their pass-rush.
But despite those positives, with other, premium edge rushers available, who perhaps do not carry the same red flags, the decision to mortgage future assets for Pearce still feels baffling.
A masterstroke for the Rams
On the flip side, this trade is a coup for the Los Angeles Rams. With an ageing roster in need of fresh talent, they’ve turned No. 26 into a haul: No. 46, No. 242, and a 2026 first-rounder.
That future pick could be a game-changer, especially given that Atlanta aren’t exactly a Super Bowl contender at present, suggesting a fairly decent positional pick. It gives the Rams two first-round selections in 2026 — perfect for either drafting impact players or trading up for a franchise quarterback, which they’ll likely need from next year.
With their new second-round pick at No. 46 this year, the Rams could target prospects like offensive lineman Aireontae Ersery to bolster their line or a defensive standout in cornerback Will Johnson to shore up their secondary. This deal provides LA with flexibility and depth, exactly what a team in their position needs to stay competitive.
For the Falcons, this trade is a head-scratcher—a costly overreach that jeopardises their future for a redundant roster move. For the Rams, it’s a brilliant haul that sets them up beautifully. Atlanta’s front office has some explaining to do.
