Kansas City Chiefs Predicted to Draft Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. in 2025 NFL Draft

The Kansas City Chiefs are predicted to draft Tennessee’s James Pearce Jr. in the 2025 NFL draft.

The NFL draft is set to kick off this week with the first round starting on Thursday night. The Tennessee Volunteers have a handful of prospects that will be waiting to hear their name called. One of which is EDGE James Pearce Jr., a prospect whose draft stock has slid up and down throughout the process

ESPN’s Peter Schrager released his latest NFL mock draft based on what league sources have told him and he has the Kansas City Chiefs are projected to take Pearce at 31st overall in the first round. Here is what Schrager had to say about the pick:

“The Chiefs could add another player with stellar physical traits to their defense,” Schrager wrote. “Pearce has double-digit sack potential and a ton of upside, though most have him sliding to the second round.”

Pearce had a breakout season for the Volunteers in 2023 and many expected him to be an option for the first overall pick, potentially. He didn’t have the same amount of production in 2024, but Pearce still fits the mold of what teams are looking for in EDGE rushers nowadays. The first round of the draft is set to start at 8 PM ET. The draft will be broadcast on ABC, ESPN, and NFL Network.

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches on Thursday night in Green Bay, Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. remains one of the most intriguing prospects. Once projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick, Pearce’s draft stock has fluctuated, with projections now placing him anywhere from the mid-first round to the end of Day 1. Despite this, CBS Sports analyst Chris Trapasso ranks Pearce as a top overall player in the draft, citing his unique frame and disruptive pass-rushing abilities .​

As the 2025 NFL Draft approaches on Thursday night in Green Bay, Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. remains one of the most intriguing prospects. Once projected as a potential No. 1 overall pick, Pearce’s draft stock has fluctuated, with projections now placing him anywhere from the mid-first round to the end of Day 1. Despite this, CBS Sports analyst Chris Trapasso ranks Pearce as a top overall player in the draft, citing his unique frame and disruptive pass-rushing abilities .​

2. Washington Commanders (Pick No. 29)

The Commanders are in need of pass-rushing reinforcements after losing sack leader Dante Fowler Jr. Pearce’s length and explosiveness could fill this void effectively. His first-team All-SEC season, featuring 13 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks, showcases his potential to be a disruptive force on the edge.

3. Green Bay Packers (Pick No. 23)

The Packers are considering various defensive end prospects, including Pearce, to bolster their pass rush. His speed and athleticism could complement Green Bay’s defensive line, providing a fresh dynamic to their front seven.

James Pearce Jr.’s draft journey reflects the complexities of evaluating NFL talent. While some teams may be cautious due to concerns about his versatility and off-field issues, his raw talent and pass-rushing prowess are undeniable. Teams like the Eagles, Commanders, and Packers could provide the right environment for Pearce to develop into a premier NFL edge rusher. As the draft unfolds, it will be fascinating to see which team decides to invest in his potential.