The Falcons’ first Week 9 injury report in Madrid brought the biggest possible development on James Pearce Jr.: he was listed as a full participant for the first time all season.
Atlanta held a short walkthrough Wednesday morning after arriving in Spain for its matchup with the Cincinnati Bengals, then released a simulated injury report. Pearce, who was suspended for the first eight games for his violation of the NFL's personal conduct policy, is expected to make his 2026 debut Sunday. Last season, the Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist led all rookies with 10.5 sacks.
Head coach Kevin Stefanski said Pearce is in good shape, but the Falcons will spend the rest of the week figuring out how much he can handle against Cincinnati.
"Asked about Pearce, Stefanski said the Falcons are pleased with where he is in terms of being football ready," wrote team reporter Tori McElhaney. "He's been working out with the Falcons strength staff for the last month, per his suspension rules. That said, Stefanski added the Falcons will use the rest of this week to determine how many snaps Pearce gets this Sunday against the Cincinnati Bengals."
Zachariah Branch was the only player to miss Wednesday’s session, and that was no surprise. The rookie return man is dealing with a hamstring injury, and Stefanski has already ruled him out for Sunday.
There was also some movement on the limited list. Linebacker Divine Deablo, running back Brian Robinson Jr. and linebacker Yasir Abdullah, who has been designated to return from injured reserve, were all limited to open the week. Defensive back Billy Bowman Jr. was a full participant, along with Beaux Collins, Cameron Williams and Pearce.
Falcons Week 9 injury report (estimated): Wednesday updates
WR Zachariah Branch (hamstring): DNP/OUT
LB Divine Deablo (forearm): LP
LB Yasir Abdullah (hamstring): LP
RB Brian Robinson Jr. (hamstring): LP
DB Billy Bowman Jr. (hamstring): FP
WR Beaux Collins (hip): FP
DE James Pearce Jr. (not injury related): FP
OT Cameron Williams (ankle): FP
Sunday’s game kicks off at 9:30 a.m. ET.
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