Welcome to an in-depth look at James Pearce Jr., one of the most exciting prospects heading into the 2025 NFL Draft. Known for his explosive edge-rushing ability and standout performances at Tennessee, Pearce has quickly risen to prominence in the football world.
In this comprehensive blog post, we’ll explore every facet of his life—his age, NFL career trajectory, family background, physical stats, personal life, net worth, and much more. Whether you’re a die-hard football fan or just curious about this emerging talent, this details to answer all your questions about James Pearce Jr.
Who Is James Pearce Jr.?
James Pearce Jr. is an American football defensive end who has captured the attention of NFL scouts and fans alike with his dynamic playmaking ability. Born on October 12, 2003, in Charlotte, North Carolina, Pearce rose through the ranks of high school and college football to become a top-tier prospect for the 2025 NFL Draft. His journey from a four-star recruit to a dominant force in the Southeastern Conference (SEC) with the Tennessee Volunteers showcases his dedication, athleticism, and potential to thrive at the professional level.
At just 21 years old as of April 2025, Pearce is poised to make a significant impact in the NFL. Let’s dive into the details of his life and career, starting with his early years and family background.
James Pearce Jr.’s Age and Early Life
As of April 2, 2025, James Pearce Jr. is 21 years old, having been born on October 12, 2003. His youth is a key factor in his appeal as an NFL prospect—his age suggests he has plenty of room to grow and develop into an elite player over the course of a long professional career.
Pearce grew up in Charlotte, North Carolina, where he attended Julius L. Chambers High School (formerly known as Zebulon B. Vance High School). During his senior year, he showcased his pass-rushing prowess, recording an impressive 14.5 sacks and two interceptions. This standout performance earned him a four-star recruit rating and offers from nearly 20 colleges, including South Carolina. Ultimately, he chose to commit to the University of Tennessee, setting the stage for his collegiate success.
Family Background: Parents and Siblings
James Pearce Jr.’s family has played a crucial role in shaping his journey to football stardom. His full name is James Cecil Pearce Jr., indicating he is named after his father, James Cecil Pearce Sr. While specific details about his parents’ professions or personal lives remain private, it’s clear they supported his athletic ambitions from a young age. Growing up in Charlotte, Pearce likely drew inspiration from his family to pursue football with relentless determination.
As for siblings, there is no publicly available information confirming whether James Pearce Jr. has brothers or sisters. Like many athletes, he keeps his family life relatively low-key, allowing his on-field performance to take center stage. However, his close-knit upbringing in North Carolina undoubtedly contributed to his strong work ethic and competitive spirit.
James Pearce Jr.’s Height and Weight
One of the standout attributes that make James Pearce Jr. a coveted NFL prospect is his physical profile. Standing at 6 feet 5 inches tall (6’5”) and weighing approximately 245 pounds, Pearce possesses the ideal frame for an edge rusher. His height gives him a significant advantage in leveraging against offensive linemen, while his weight—combined with his speed—makes him a formidable presence on the field.
At the 2025 NFL Scouting Combine, Pearce turned heads with a blazing 4.47-second 40-yard dash, a rare feat for a player of his size. Scouts note that his frame has room for additional muscle, suggesting he could bulk up to 255-260 pounds in the NFL without sacrificing his trademark explosiveness. This combination of height, weight, and athleticism positions him as a versatile defender capable of thriving in multiple defensive schemes.
College Career and NFL Stats
High School to Tennessee Volunteers
James Pearce Jr.’s football career began to take shape at Julius L. Chambers High School, where his senior-year stats (14.5 sacks) established him as a top recruit. Upon arriving at Tennessee in 2022, he played as a true freshman, appearing in all 13 games. Though his role was limited, he recorded five tackles and two sacks, hinting at the potential that would soon explode.
In 2023, Pearce’s sophomore season, he became a breakout star. Starting just three games but playing in all 13, he led the Volunteers with 10 sacks and 14.5 tackles for loss (TFLs), earning First-Team All-SEC honors. His ability to disrupt opposing offenses was further highlighted in the 2024 Citrus Bowl against Iowa, where he returned an interception 52 yards for a touchdown—a rare feat for a defensive lineman.
The 2024 season solidified Pearce’s status as an elite talent. Despite facing constant double teams, he recorded 7.5 sacks, 13 TFLs, and 38 total tackles, again earning First-Team All-SEC recognition. Over his three-year college career, Pearce amassed 19.5 sacks, 29.5 TFLs, and 71 tackles, tying him with Darrell Taylor for 10th on Tennessee’s all-time sacks list. His 113 quarterback pressures, per Pro Football Focus (PFF), underscore his dominance as a pass rusher.
NFL Draft Projection
After forgoing his senior year, James Pearce Jr. declared for the 2025 NFL Draft, where he is widely regarded as a first-round talent. Analysts praise his elite first-step quickness, bend, and length, projecting him as a top-15 pick, though some rank him closer to the late first round due to concerns about his run defense. Teams seeking a dynamic pass rusher—such as the Detroit Lions, Washington Commanders, or Green Bay Packers—could target him to bolster their defensive lines.
Personal Life: Girlfriend, Wife, and Relationships
At 21 years old, James Pearce Jr. appears to be focused primarily on his football career, and there is no public information confirming a girlfriend or wife. Unlike some high-profile athletes, Pearce keeps his personal life out of the spotlight, with no mentions of romantic relationships on his social media accounts (Twitter:
@JamesPearceJr10
, Instagram:
@tenn
.jamess). This privacy suggests he’s prioritizing his transition to the NFL over publicizing his dating life.
While rumors occasionally swirl about young athletes’ relationships, no credible sources have linked Pearce to a specific partner. For now, it seems his “significant other” is football itself—a common trait among rising stars preparing for the professional stage.
Net Worth, House, and Car
Net Worth
As a college athlete prior to the 2025 NFL Draft, James Pearce Jr.’s net worth is modest compared to established NFL players. However, the advent of Name, Image, and Likeness (NIL) deals has allowed college stars like Pearce to earn significant income. Estimates suggest his NIL earnings during his Tennessee tenure could range from $100,000 to $500,000, based on his prominence and marketability in the SEC.
Once drafted, Pearce’s net worth will skyrocket. A projected first-round pick in 2025 could sign a rookie contract worth $10-20 million over four years, depending on his draft slot. Future endorsements and performance bonuses could push his net worth into the millions within a few years.
House and Car
Currently, there’s no public information about Pearce owning a house or car. As a college student living in Knoxville, Tennessee, he likely resided in university housing or a modest apartment. Post-draft, he’ll have the financial means to invest in a home and luxury vehicle—common purchases for NFL rookies. Speculation among fans suggests he might opt for a sleek car brand like Dodge (e.g., a Charger or Challenger) or a high-end SUV, reflecting his North Carolina roots and athletic persona.
Brand Endorsements and Friends
Endorsements
James Pearce Jr.’s endorsement portfolio is still in its infancy, but his NIL deals at Tennessee likely included local partnerships or apparel brands. As an NFL rookie, he’ll attract attention from major companies like Nike, Under Armour, or Adidas, which frequently sign young defensive stars. Energy drink brands (e.g., Gatorade, Red Bull) and gaming companies could also pursue him, given his youthful energy and growing fanbase.
Friends
While specific names of Pearce’s close friends aren’t widely publicized, he likely formed strong bonds with Tennessee teammates like quarterback Nico Iamaleava or fellow defensive linemen. His outgoing personality, evident in interviews, suggests he’s well-liked among peers. As he enters the NFL, expect him to connect with other rookies and veterans alike, building a network within the league.
NFL Draft FAQ
When Is the 2025 NFL Draft?
The 2025 NFL Draft is scheduled for April 24-26, 2025, in Green Bay, Wisconsin.
Where Is James Pearce Jr. Projected to Be Drafted?
Most mock drafts project Pearce as a first-round pick, with rankings ranging from the top 10 to the late 20s. His final slot will depend on team needs and pre-draft evaluations.
What Are His Strengths?
Pearce excels as a pass rusher with elite speed (4.47 40-yard dash), length, and bend. His ability to generate pressure and disrupt plays makes him a Day 1 asset.
What Are His Weaknesses?
His run defense needs improvement, and he may require added strength to handle NFL offensive tackles consistently. Some scouts view him as a situational pass rusher early in his career.
Which Teams Might Draft Him?
Teams like the Detroit Lions, Washington Commanders, and Green Bay Packers, all seeking edge-rushing talent, are potential landing spots.
Conclusion: James Pearce Jr.’s Bright Future
James Pearce Jr. is more than just a football player—he’s a rising star with the potential to redefine the edge-rusher position in the NFL. At 21 years old, with a towering 6’5”, 245-pound frame and a college stat line boasting 19.5 sacks, he’s already proven his worth. From his Charlotte roots to his Tennessee dominance, Pearce’s journey reflects hard work, talent, and untapped potential.
As he prepares for the 2025 NFL Draft, questions about his family, personal life, and off-field ventures will take a backseat to his on-field impact. Whether he’s sacking quarterbacks, building his net worth, or forging new friendships in the league, James Pearce Jr. is a name to watch. Stay tuned as this young phenom transitions from college standout to NFL sensation.
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