The Falcons overhauled their defense in the offseason. They're hoping players with "a natural edge" lead to a change on the field, too.

"Baller," was how quarterback Michael Penix described 6-foot-5, first-year edge rusher James Pearce Jr. The 26th pick in the 2025 Draft out of Tennessee, Pearce first turned some heads on Sunday with his intensity. RELATED: Bijan Robinson is preparing for another busy season as Falcons' do-it-all running back

The Atlanta Falcons got back to work on Tuesday morning for their first fully padded practice. Before they took the field, though, head coach Raheem Morris addressed Sunday's minor practice scuffle.