The 2025 NFL Draft, set for April 24-26 at Lambeau Field in Green Bay, Wisconsin, is shaping up to be an exciting event, and Tennessee’s defensive powerhouse, James Pearce Jr., is making a strong case for a top pick. Following a standout 2024 season, the 6-foot-5, 243-pound defensive lineman has received high praise, with USA TODAY Sports projecting him as the No. 11 overall pick in the first round, going to the San Francisco 49ers.
Pearce Jr. had a stellar 2024 campaign for the Vols, playing in 13 games and making a major impact on the field. He recorded 38 tackles, including 13 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. Additionally, he forced one fumble, recovered another, and even deflected a pass, showing off his all-around defensive skills. Over his impressive three-year career at Tennessee (2022-2024), Pearce Jr. accumulated 71 tackles, 29.5 tackles for loss, and 19.5 sacks, proving himself as one of the most dominant defensive players in college football.
As the 2025 draft approaches, Pearce Jr.’s name is one to watch as he is poised to make an immediate impact at the next level. With his combination of size, skill, and production, he could be a game-changer for whichever NFL team is lucky enough to draft him.
