James Pearce Jr. suspended eight games by NFL
By Michael
Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. is being suspended eight regular-season games for violating the NFL personal conduct policy, according to ESPN's Adam Schefter.
What happened in the arrest
Pearce was arrested on February 7 in Doral, Florida, after an incident involving Jackson, his former girlfriend. He allegedly rammed his vehicle into her car several times near a Doral police station. Pearce faces felony charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting an officer with violence, along with a misdemeanor stalking charge. He agreed to a pretrial intervention program, which could result in dismissal of those charges if he complies with its terms.
What the James Pearce Jr. suspension means for fantasy
Eight games is a significant chunk of the season. Pearce was a first-round pick and projected to play a pass-rush role for Atlanta. Anyone rostering him in dynasty or redraft leagues should account for his absence through nearly half the regular season. Check Atlanta's depth chart for the edge rusher who figures to pick up his snaps in the interim, as that player becomes relevant on the waiver wire.