Falcons head coach Kevin Stefanski gives update on James Pearce Jr.

The Atlanta Falcons held their first voluntary workout on Tuesday, allowing head coach Kevin Stefanski and his staff to set the foundation for the 2026 NFL season. Since the Falcons were among the 10 NFL teams to hire a new head coach, they were allowed to start voluntary workouts a few weeks early.

Stefanski met with the media on Wednesday and said he was grateful to have the extra time to prepare. Atlanta's new head coach also provided some updates on James Pearce Jr.'s status and Michael Penix Jr.'s rehab.

"We're very, very lucky to get to start two weeks early," said Stefanski. "We get a jumpstart on everybody as a new staff and we're going to take advantage of that. And the guys have done a great job so very, very excited to be back in front of those guys."

When asked about Pearce's status for the team's voluntary workouts, Stefanski said the Defensive Rookie of the Year finalist was not present.

"I will tell you guys that James Pearce is not here," said Stefanski. "We've been in constant communication with his representation."

Aside from the Pearce update, Stefanski said he would not disclose which players were in attendance. The Falcons head coach was asked for an update on quarterback Michael Penix Jr., who's recovering from an offseason ACL surgery.

"He's been somebody that is attacking his rehab, which should come as no surprise to anybody," said Stefanski. "He's right where he needs to be, but not focused on timetables just yet."

Overall, these offseason workouts are helpful in setting the foundation for the upcoming season, and that's what Stefanski is focused on.

"So much of the offseason program is just building foundational knowledge," said Stefanski. "Foundational knowledge of our identity as an offense, as a defense, as special teams."

This article originally appeared on Falcons Wire: Atlanta Falcons: Kevin Stefanski on James Pearce, workouts