Bijan Robinson #7 of the Atlanta Falcons runs the ball during the game against the Indianapolis Colts. He later scored an impressive touchdown in the game against the Saints.
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Bijan Robinson #7 of the Atlanta Falcons runs the ball during the game against the Indianapolis Colts. He later scored an impressive touchdown in the game against the Saints.
The Atlanta Falcons’ 2026 voluntary offseason workout program is underway, and one player that made sure to show up was running back Bijan Robinson.
The Falcons were given the luxury of beginning their offseason workout program early, on April 7, thanks to being one of the teams that will begin next season with a new head coach.
That early start gives the Falcons a chance to begin establishing their identity under new leadership, while also getting a head start on integrating new pieces on both sides of the ball.
On the following day, Robinson spoke with media members on several subjects, including his teammate, edge rusher James Pearce Jr., who is not taking part in the workouts in Flowery Branch, Georgia.
Bijan Robinson Speaks on James Pearce Jr.’s Absence From Workouts
It was reported by NFL insider Ian Rapoport that Pearce wouldn’t be attending this year’s workouts. Last year’s rookie standout is currently dealing with serious legal issues, facing three felony charges stemming from a domestic incident with ex-girlfriend Rickea Jackson back in February.
When Robinson was asked if he had spoken with Pearce since the incident, he said, “Definitely praying for my brother. … If he does come back or is here in this building, I’m going to make sure he’s all the way focused … on and off the field,” via The Athletic’s Josh Kendall.
Much like Robinson is the centerpiece of the Falcons’ offense, with the season that Pearce had in his rookie campaign, many believed he was set to take that same role on the defensive side of the ball.
Pearce recorded 10.5 sacks last season, the most by a rookie since Micah Parsons in 2021. He also played a major role in helping reinvent the Falcons’ pass rush overall, with the team recording a franchise-record 57 sacks.
Of course, now his future — not only with the Falcons but possibly in the NFL — is in serious jeopardy depending on how the legal process plays out.
Falcons Address Pearce Situation While Focusing on 2026 Season
Robinson wasn’t the only one asked about Pearce and his future with the Falcons. Head coach Kevin Stefanski was another who spoke briefly on the talented pass rusher.
“We have been in constant communication with his representation,” Stefanski said.
Josh Kendall
Kevin Stefanski confirms James Pearce Jr. not here this week.
“We have been in constant communication with his representation.”
When asked if Pearce would be participating at all in OTAs, Stefanski said, “It’s a voluntary program so that’s up to each individual player… I’m focused on today.”
And for Stefanski, there are much larger matters to worry about heading into the 2026 season than Pearce — at least for now.
The biggest storyline remains at quarterback.
There will be an open competition between free agent signee Tua Tagovailoa and third-year quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who is coming off a season-ending ACL injury.
That position battle will likely define the Falcons’ season, especially with a new regime in place looking to establish its direction early.
At least one player Stefanski doesn’t have to worry about is Robinson.
He’s coming off a career season in his third year, rushing for 1,478 yards and seven touchdowns, while adding another 820 receiving yards and four more scores.
He also seems to be enjoying OTAs so far and embracing the new energy around the team.
“This is the best I have felt my whole time here,” Robinson said. “Last year was a cool year, but this year I want to be even better.”