TRAUMATIC NEWS: THE VOLS COACH WAS SLAMMED BY FORMER.

James Pearce Jr., a defensive lineman for Tennessee, was taken into custody on December 4th, evening, for a traffic infraction.

Pearce was traveling at 63 mph in a 35 mph zone, according to a report from the Knoxville Police Department that Knox News was able to obtain. His car’s temporary license plates had expired, and he was unable to produce identification or any kind of proof of insurance. Later on, it was found that Pearce’s license in North Carolina, where the vehicle was registered, was suspended.

The report also mentioned that Pearce failed to comply with police, refusing to follow instructions when police asked him to turn off the car and step out of the vehicle. He was asked to stand off to the side while the police searched the car, but Pearce approached the car, leading to his arrest. He was charged with speeding, driving on a suspended license, failure to present insurance, registration improperly displayed, and improper window tinting.

“We are aware of the incident involving James Pearce Jr., and we are awaiting more information,” said a spokesperson from the university. Neither the team nor head coach Josh Heupel have released a statement.

Tennessee’s football team has now had three players on its roster who have had traffic violations this season, including Pearce. The other Vols with violations are senior cornerback Doneiko Slaughter and freshman running back DeSean Bishop, both for reckless driving in November and October, respectively. Both players were only issued citations, Pearce is the only arrest.

Pearce is among the nation’s top defensive players. In terms of sacks, he is second in the SEC, and he leads Tennessee in both quarterback hurries and tackles for loss. The Vols will be missing a major player on their defensive line if he is unable to participate in their bowl game on January 1 against No. 21 Iowa.