Falcons’ Pearce suspended eight games for violating NFL’s personal conduct policy

Atlanta Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. has been suspended eight games for violating the NFL's personal conduct policy, the league announced Friday.

Pearce is eligible to participate in all pre-season activities with the Falcons, and the suspension will officially begin on Aug. 30. He will be eligible for reinstatement on Nov. 2.

Pearce was arrested near Miami on Feb. 7 after an incident involving his former girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson.

He faces three felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police and resisting an officer with violence, in addition to a misdemeanour stalking charge.

In April, Pearce agreed to enter a pretrial intervention program, which his attorneys said will allow him to resolve the three felony charges.

Pearce led Atlanta with 10 1/2 sacks last season. His 45 quarterback pressures set a Falcons rookie record.