KNOXVILLE, Tenn. – As the NFL Combine approaches, Tennessee Vols edge rusher James Pearce, Jr. is looking to make a statement and improve his draft stock.
According to a recent article by Pro Football Focus (PFF), Pearce, Jr. has the potential to be a first-round pick, but he needs to show scouts and coaches that he can be a more consistent and polished pass rusher.
“Pearce has the physical tools to be a top-10 pick, but his production has been inconsistent,” wrote PFF’s Michael Renner. “He needs to show scouts that he can be a more refined pass rusher, with a better plan and more effective counter moves.”
Renner identified three key areas where Pearce, Jr. needs to improve at the NFL Combine:
1. *Showcase his speed and agility*: Pearce, Jr. has the physical tools to be an elite edge rusher, but he needs to show scouts that he can translate his athleticism into production on the field. Renner wrote that Pearce, Jr. needs to run a sub-4.7 40-yard dash and show quickness and agility in the drills.
2. *Demonstrate a more refined pass rush plan*: Pearce, Jr. has shown flashes of brilliance as a pass rusher, but he needs to show scouts that he has a more consistent and effective plan. Renner wrote that Pearce, Jr. needs to show a variety of moves, including a speed rush, a power rush, and a counter move.
3. *Show improvement in his run defense*: While Pearce, Jr. has been effective as a pass rusher, he has struggled at times against the run. Renner wrote that Pearce, Jr. needs to show scouts that he can be a more consistent and effective run defender, using his strength and athleticism to set the edge and make tackles.
Tennessee head coach Josh Heupel has been impressed with Pearce, Jr.’s progress and is confident that he will make a strong impression at the NFL Combine.
“James has worked incredibly hard to get to this point,” Heupel said. “He’s a talented player with a lot of potential, and I’m excited to see him showcase his skills at the Combine.”
Pearce, Jr. is expected to be one of the top edge rushers at the NFL Combine, and a strong performance could help him solidify his position as a first-round pick.
“I’m excited to show scouts what I can do,” Pearce, Jr. said. “I’ve worked hard to improve my skills and I’m confident that I can make a strong impression at the Combine.”
The NFL Combine is set to take place from March 1-7 in Indianapolis, Indiana. Pearce, Jr. is expected to participate in the defensive line drills and will likely meet with scouts and coaches from various NFL teams.
_Tennessee Vols at the NFL Combine:_
– James Pearce, Jr. (Edge Rusher)
– Hendon Hooker (Quarterback)
– Jalin Hyatt (Wide Receiver)
– Cedric Tillman (Wide Receiver)
The NFL Combine is a critical step in the draft process, and a strong performance can help players like Pearce, Jr. improve their draft stock and secure a spot in the first round.
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