MADRID — Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr.'s return from suspension has been put in doubt because of an injury setback in practice on Friday, Atlanta coach Kevin Stefanski said.
Pearce reportedly had a back issue “flare up” and was limited in practice, leaving him listed as questionable.
The second-year edge rusher was expected to be back in action against the Cincinnati Bengals on Sunday in Madrid after missing the first eight games of the season. He was suspended for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy after being arrested in February following a domestic dispute with his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson.
Stefanski added Pearce would be monitored over the weekend, with the hope they'll know more about his condition in the next 24-48 hours.
Earlier in the week, Stefanski said whether Pearce would be on a snap count would be determined by how he responded in practice.
Falcons defensive co-ordinator Jeff Ulbrich said Pearce would operate in a pure pass-rush role and be on a snap count.
Pearce participated in Wednesday's walkthrough after the team arrived in Madrid for Sunday's game.
The second-year defensive end was reinstated on Monday, a day after the team's 16-0 loss in heavy rain at the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.
In addition, wide receiver Zachariah Branch and running back Brian Robinson Jr. have been ruled out for Sunday's game because of hamstring injuries.
Linebackers Yasir Abdullah (hamstring) and Divine Deablo (forearm), wide receiver Beaux Collins (hip), as well as offensive tackle Cameron Williams (ankle) are listed as questionable.
