EXCLUSIVE: GM Wowed by Tennessee EDGE James Pearce at The NFL Scouting Combine
As the NFL Scouting Combine continues to unfold, one player has been turning heads and leaving scouts, coaches, and general managers alike in awe. Tennessee EDGE rusher James Pearce, who has been a standout on the Volunteers’ defense for the past few seasons, has made an unforgettable impression during his workouts in Indianapolis. The buzz surrounding Pearce is undeniable, as multiple general managers have been quick to praise his skill set, athleticism, and potential to be a game-changer at the next level.
Pearce, who has been known for his explosive speed, relentless motor, and ability to rush the passer, is quickly becoming one of the most sought-after defensive prospects in this year’s draft. While his college production already made him a promising prospect, his performance at the Combine has elevated his stock even further, earning rave reviews from NFL front offices.
Pearce’s Combine Performance: A Showcase of Physical Prowess
James Pearce has always had the physical tools that NFL teams crave in a pass rusher, and his Combine performance only solidified those expectations. Standing at 6’4” and weighing 250 pounds, Pearce’s frame is ideal for the EDGE position. However, it’s not just his size that has impressed scouts — it’s his blend of athleticism, explosiveness, and raw strength that has been drawing the most attention.
During his drills, Pearce displayed elite speed and agility that are crucial for a pass rusher. His 40-yard dash time was among the fastest for EDGE prospects, clocking in at an impressive 4.59 seconds. While speed isn’t the only factor when evaluating a pass rusher, Pearce’s ability to close the gap quickly between himself and the quarterback makes him a nightmare for offensive linemen.
In addition to his speed, Pearce’s agility stood out during the shuttle drills, where he showed off his quick feet and ability to change direction seamlessly. His fluid movements suggest that he is not only capable of running around offensive tackles but also skilled enough to slip inside and get to the quarterback in different ways. This versatility is something that NFL teams are looking for in modern EDGE rushers who can attack from multiple angles.
One of the most impressive aspects of Pearce’s Combine was his vertical jump, which was one of the best in his group. His leaping ability indicates a player with explosive power and the potential to bat down passes or disrupt plays at the line of scrimmage. When combined with his relentless motor and ability to finish plays, Pearce’s physical attributes make him one of the most intriguing EDGE prospects in the 2025 draft class.
GM’s Reactions: Pearce’s Potential to Impact the NFL
As expected, the GM reactions to Pearce’s Combine performance have been overwhelmingly positive. Several NFL general managers have been vocal about their admiration for his athleticism and potential to make an immediate impact in the NFL.
One anonymous GM, who attended Pearce’s workouts at the Combine, had this to say:
“Pearce’s combination of size, speed, and explosiveness is just rare. He’s got the kind of physical tools that you just can’t teach. But what stood out to me was his motor. He doesn’t take plays off, and you can see that relentless drive on every snap. He’s not just a guy who can rush the passer; he’s a player who can change the game. If he continues to develop his technique and refine his game, he’s got the potential to be a top-tier pass rusher in the league.”
Another GM who was equally impressed by Pearce’s physicality and upside noted:
“He’s a player who can create mismatches against offensive linemen. His speed and burst off the line are elite, and he can beat tackles with both power and finesse. What’s exciting about Pearce is that he hasn’t even scratched the surface of his potential. He’s just starting to put it all together, and I think he can be a real game-changer for whoever drafts him.”
The feedback from NFL front offices highlights what many analysts have been saying about Pearce: He is a player who possesses all the tools to excel at the next level but still has room to grow. Pearce’s combination of physical attributes and his work ethic could make him a star in the NFL, and it’s clear that teams are keeping a close eye on him as the draft approaches.
Pearce’s College Career: Dominance on the Field
James Pearce’s success at the NFL Scouting Combine isn’t just a product of his athleticism; it’s also backed by his on-field performance during his time at Tennessee. As an EDGE rusher for the Volunteers, Pearce was a dominant force, terrorizing opposing quarterbacks and helping lead Tennessee’s defense to several notable victories.
Over the course of his college career, Pearce registered 35 tackles for loss and 16 sacks, making him one of the most disruptive players in the SEC. His ability to get after the quarterback was evident in every game, and he consistently showed up in clutch moments. Pearce’s standout performance came against some of the best offensive lines in the country, proving he can compete at the highest levels.
His speed off the edge and ability to bend around tackles made him a nightmare for quarterbacks, and his consistency in pressuring the passer was a key asset to Tennessee’s defense. Whether it was disrupting the pocket or finishing with a sack, Pearce’s presence was felt every time he was on the field.
But what really separated Pearce from other EDGE prospects was his motor. He plays with a relentless drive, always hustling to the ball, even when the play seems to be headed in the other direction. That tenacity has caught the attention of NFL scouts, as they believe Pearce’s drive to succeed will only help him further refine his skills as he transitions to the next level.
Pearce’s Development: Room to Grow
While Pearce’s Combine performance and college production have both been impressive, many scouts believe his best football is still ahead of him. There are areas of his game that can be developed further, particularly in terms of refining his pass-rushing techniques. Some scouts have noted that Pearce’s hands and overall technique could improve, as he often relies on his raw athleticism to win matchups.
However, this is not seen as a major concern. Pearce’s physical tools are already elite, and with the right coaching at the next level, many believe he can quickly develop into a polished pass rusher. His relentless work ethic and hunger for improvement suggest that he will put in the effort to fine-tune his skills, making him an appealing option for teams looking for a high-upside pass rusher.
The Future for Pearce: A High-Risk, High-Reward Prospect
James Pearce’s rise at the NFL Scouting Combine has made it clear: he is a high-risk, high-reward prospect for any NFL team. His combination of size, speed, and athleticism makes him an enticing player, and his work ethic and motor set him apart from many other EDGE rushers in this year’s class. While his technique still needs refining, Pearce’s potential is undeniable, and he could be one of the most impactful rookies in the 2025 season.
As teams continue to evaluate their needs and assess the draft prospects, James Pearce is quickly becoming one of the top names to watch. If he can continue developing his technique and harness his athletic gifts, there’s no doubt he will become a game-changing EDGE rusher in the NFL — one that GMs and coaches alike will be excited to build their defense around.
For now, Pearce’s performance at the NFL Scouting Combine has proven that he’s more than just an athletic freak. He’s a player who is ready to take the next step and make an immediate impact at the professional level. With the NFL Draft looming, it’s clear that James Pearce’s name will be at the top of many team’s wish lists.