The Atlanta Falcons held a press conference for their three coordinators on Wednesday, allowing offensive coordinator Tommy Rees, defensive coordinator Jeff Ulbrich and special teams coordinator Craig Aukerman to share their philosophies ahead of the 2026 NFL offseason.
While all three coaches addressed the media, there was very little said about rookie James Pearce Jr.'s recent arrest. The Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist is facing five felony charges stemming from an incident in which he stalked his ex-girlfriend and crashed into her car before attempting to evade police.
Ulbrich was asked about the Pearce situation at Wednesday's press conference and while he wouldn't get into details, he expressed his disappointment in the former first-round selection.
"I was obviously disappointed, you know," answered Ulbrich before moving on to another question.
The Falcons defensive coordinator was asked if he's planning to be without Pearce in 2026 but did not want to speculate on the situation.
"It's still so early," Ulbrich stated about the team having Pearce back next season. "You know, we're not there yet, either way."
Even if Pearce is beats his charges, which doesn't seem likely, he will certainly face discipline from the NFL. According to ESPN's Marc Raimondi, Pearce's ex-girlfriend is prepared to testify in court.
WNBA’s Rickea Jackson “willing to testify” against James Pearce Jr. in domestic violence case https://t.co/J92y0GjeMV
— Marc Raimondi (@marcraimondi) February 11, 2026
Head coach Kevin Stefanski addressed the Pearce situation at the start of Wednesday's press conference.
"On the James Pearce situation, there's really nothing to add," said Stefanski. "I'll defer to the statement that was put out. I understand there are questions, but we don't have much to add there."
We'll have to wait and see how the situation plays out over the next few weeks.
This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: Jeff Ulbrich comments on James Pearce arrest