The latest information on Tennessee Vols edge rusher James Pearce’s potential draft position in 2025 is provided by an NFL analyst.

Tennessee Volunteers football has seen its fair share of standout athletes over the years, and one name that’s rising to the top in 2025 NFL Draft discussions is James Pearce Jr. The junior edge rusher has been a dominant force on the Volunteers’ defensive line, and his performance in the 2024 season is setting him up for a potential first-round selection in the 2025 NFL Draft. But what does the future hold for Pearce? Let’s break down the latest analysis of his draft potential, his journey at Tennessee, and what NFL scouts and analysts are saying about his potential.

The Rise of James Pearce Jr.

James Pearce Jr. hails from the small town of Charlotte, North Carolina, where he was an overlooked recruit coming out of high school. Pearce wasn’t a household name during his early years at Tennessee, but he quickly established himself as a formidable defensive presence, using his combination of speed, size, and agility to wreak havoc on opposing offenses.

At 6’5” and 250 pounds, Pearce possesses the prototypical frame for an edge rusher in the NFL. His athleticism and explosiveness have made him one of the most disruptive players in the SEC and a standout on Tennessee’s defense. In just a few short seasons, Pearce has demonstrated the ability to get after the quarterback, set the edge against the run, and excel in multiple defensive schemes.

It’s no surprise that Pearce has earned the attention of NFL scouts and analysts. His journey from a relatively unheralded recruit to one of the top edge rusher prospects in the country has been a testament to his hard work, development, and natural talent. Now, as he enters his junior year with the Vols, Pearce’s draft stock is on the rise, and many consider him a potential first-round pick.

James Pearce’s 2024 Performance and Draft Stock

The 2024 college football season has been pivotal for Pearce’s draft prospects. Through the first few games of the season, Pearce has consistently flashed his raw talent, registering several sacks and tackles for loss, while being a consistent disruptor in the backfield. These performances have caught the eye of NFL scouts, and Pearce is quickly establishing himself as one of the premier pass rushers in the SEC.

Stats So Far in 2024

While Pearce’s stats are impressive, they don’t tell the whole story of his impact on the game. As of the midpoint of the season, Pearce has recorded:

• 5.5 sacks
• 12 tackles for loss
• 3 forced fumbles
• 1 interception

These numbers reflect a player who can both rush the passer and be disruptive in other areas. Pearce’s ability to contribute in various ways—from creating turnovers to pressuring the quarterback—has been key to Tennessee’s defense in 2024.

Advanced Metrics and Analytics

Beyond basic statistics, Pearce’s advanced metrics are worth noting. NFL scouts and analysts look at metrics like Pass Rush Win Rate (PRWR) and Pressure Rate to evaluate a player’s ability to impact the quarterback. Pearce has posted some of the highest PRWR numbers in college football, showcasing his ability to win consistently in one-on-one matchups with opposing offensive tackles. His pressure rate is also one of the highest among edge rushers in the SEC, which speaks to his constant presence in the backfield.

Additionally, Pearce’s run defense grade has improved dramatically, indicating that he’s not just a one-dimensional pass rusher. This well-rounded game makes Pearce a more attractive prospect for NFL teams, who value edge rushers who can set the edge and contribute in run defense.

James Pearce’s NFL Draft Potential: What Analysts Are Saying

James Pearce’s stock is rising fast, and it’s no secret that he is viewed as one of the top edge rusher prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft. Several prominent NFL analysts have weighed in on Pearce’s potential, and the consensus is clear: Pearce has the tools to be a high draft pick.

NFL Analyst Opinions on Pearce

According to Mel Kiper Jr., ESPN’s NFL Draft expert, Pearce has the potential to be a top-15 pick in the 2025 draft if he continues to develop at his current pace. Kiper has praised Pearce’s “elite burst off the line of scrimmage” and his ability to “bend the edge and turn the corner against even the most seasoned tackles.” Kiper also notes that Pearce’s athleticism and strength make him a complete pass rusher, capable of rushing from both a standing and three-point stance, and that his upside is tremendous.

Similarly, Todd McShay, Kiper’s colleague at ESPN, has been vocal about Pearce’s ability to make an immediate impact in the NFL. McShay has highlighted Pearce’s “explosiveness” and “refined pass-rushing technique” as two key factors that make him a coveted prospect. McShay also notes that Pearce’s versatility—being able to play both defensive end and outside linebacker—gives him a level of flexibility that many teams are looking for in today’s NFL.

A prominent NFL scout, who remains anonymous, stated in a recent article: “James Pearce is the kind of edge rusher who can change a game. His physical traits are off the charts—he’s got the size, the length, and the speed to dominate at the next level. If he can continue to develop his pass-rushing repertoire and stay consistent in his run defense, he could be a top-10 pick.”

What Pearce Brings to the NFL

One of the key reasons why Pearce is generating so much buzz is his combination of physical traits and skills. Pearce is a true athlete—his speed and agility allow him to close in on the quarterback quickly, while his long wingspan and power make him a tough player to block in the running game. His ability to convert speed to power and his relentless motor make him a threat at all times on the field. His closing speed, particularly when chasing quarterbacks out of the pocket, is an area that sets him apart from other edge rushers in the class.

Another part of Pearce’s game that NFL scouts have taken notice of is his high football IQ. Pearce’s ability to read plays and recognize offensive linemen’s tendencies allows him to get the jump on blockers. His ability to set up pass rush moves is another area where he excels, showing a diverse array of hand techniques and a willingness to mix up his approach to keep blockers off balance.

While Pearce’s play at Tennessee is impressive, he still has some room for growth, particularly in terms of adding more pass-rushing moves to his arsenal. In the NFL, edge rushers need to have a variety of ways to win against elite tackles, and while Pearce is already adept at using his speed and power, refining his technique will be key to his success at the next level.

The Comparison: Pearce vs. Other Edge Rushers in 2025

The 2025 NFL Draft is expected to feature a strong class of edge rushers, including players like Jared Verse from Florida State, Dallas Turner from Alabama, and Brock Bowers from Georgia. Pearce’s name is often mentioned in the same breath as these top prospects, but how does he stack up against them?

Pearce vs. Jared Verse

Jared Verse has been a staple on many draft boards as one of the top edge rushers in the class, and for good reason—his combination of size and explosiveness makes him a physical threat. However, analysts have noted that Pearce may be a better pure pass rusher at this stage, particularly because of his ability to mix speed and power with technical refinement. Verse has the higher ceiling in terms of athleticism, but Pearce is seen as a more polished product right now.

Pearce vs. Dallas Turner

Dallas Turner from Alabama is another edge rusher who is expected to be a top pick in the 2025 draft. Turner, who has been a consistently dominant presence for the Crimson Tide, is more known for his explosive first step and his ability to overwhelm blockers with power. Pearce, on the other hand, has shown a more well-rounded game, with a greater emphasis on versatility and technique. While Turner has a higher burst off the line, Pearce’s ability to handle both the pass rush and run defense effectively gives him an edge as a more complete player.

Pearce vs. Brock Bowers

While not an edge rusher, Brock Bowers, a tight end from Georgia, has been discussed as one of the most dynamic players in the 2025 draft. While Pearce doesn’t compete directly with Bowers, his draft stock will be influenced by the overall depth of the draft class. If Pearce continues to perform at the level he has been, he could very well be a first-round pick, potentially even higher than Bowers, given the premium placed on pass rushers in the modern NFL.

 The Future for James Pearce Jr.

As James Pearce continues to build on his success at Tennessee, the road to the NFL is increasingly within his grasp. His combination of size, speed, and technique has made him one of the top edge rusher prospects in the 2025 NFL Draft, and analysts are confident that he can make an immediate impact at the next level. With a strong finish to his 2024 season, Pearce could solidify his status as a first-round pick, and with continued development, he could be a cornerstone for an NFL defense for years to come.

The 2025 NFL Draft is still months away, but James Pearce Jr.’s name is

one that will continue to be discussed in scouting circles as teams look for the next great pass rusher. With his potential and the tools at his disposal, Pearce’s future is incredibly bright—both at Tennessee and beyond.