Falcons Sign New Edge Rushers Amid Pearce Uncertainty

Azeez Ojulari and Sam Ebukam join the Falcons' revamped defensive line.

Mar. 16, 2026 at 11:41pm

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The Atlanta Falcons have signed free agent edge rushers Azeez Ojulari and Sam Ebukam as they continue to overhaul their defensive line. This comes amid uncertainty surrounding linebacker James Pearce Jr., who is facing three felony charges.

Why it matters

The Falcons are undergoing a roster rebuild under their new coaching staff, and upgrading the pass rush is a key priority. Ojulari and Ebukam will be counted on to provide a boost, especially with the potential loss of Pearce, who was a starter last season.

The details

Ojulari and Ebukam have both signed one-year deals with the Falcons as they look to recapture past form. Ojulari was a second-round pick of the New York Giants in 2021, while Ebukam spent the last five seasons with the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers.

  • Ojulari and Ebukam were introduced by the Falcons on Monday, March 16, 2026.
  • Pearce is facing three felony charges, the details of which were not specified.

The players

Azeez Ojulari

A former second-round pick of the New York Giants, Ojulari is joining the Falcons on a one-year deal as they look to upgrade their pass rush.

Sam Ebukam

Ebukam spent the last five seasons with the Los Angeles Rams and San Francisco 49ers, and is also signing a one-year deal with the Falcons.

James Pearce Jr.

A Falcons linebacker who is facing three felony charges, the details of which were not specified.

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What they’re saying

“We must continue to build a strong defensive line to compete in this league. Azeez and Sam bring valuable experience and talent that will help us get to the next level.”

— Arthur Smith, Falcons Head Coach

What’s next

The Falcons will monitor the legal situation surrounding James Pearce Jr. as they integrate Ojulari and Ebukam into their defensive scheme.

The takeaway

The Falcons are aggressively retooling their roster, particularly on the defensive side of the ball, as they look to bounce back from a disappointing season. The additions of Ojulari and Ebukam, coupled with the uncertainty around Pearce, signal a clear emphasis on upgrading the pass rush.