Falcons consider free agents Clowney and Barnett amid Pearce suspension uncertainty

James Pearce Jr. returned to the Atlanta Falcons for mandatory minicamp amid ongoing legal troubles. Although Pearce may avoid criminal charges if he completes an intervention program, a suspension from the NFL is still likely, affecting his availability for the upcoming season. To bolster their defense, analysts suggest the Falcons should target free agents Jadeveon Clowney or Derek Barnett if Pearce is sidelined. Barnett, previously with the Philadelphia Eagles, brings consistent pressure, while Clowney had a strong season with the Dallas Cowboys despite previous struggles.

• 1:25 PMYahoo Sports — Analyst names 2 free agents for Falcons if James Pearce is suspended