Ball State’s veteran linebacker with a nose for chaos
Cole Pearce built his reputation the hard way: as a walk-on who became a multi-year starter and one of Ball State’s most disruptive defenders. In the 2022 season, he led the Cardinals with 85 tackles, 14 tackles for loss, and 5 sacks, then followed in the 2023 season with 78 tackles, 10 tackles for loss, 3 sacks, 1 interception, and 2 forced fumbles. His fit is easy to understand—high-effort, tough, and instinctive, with pass-rush pop from the linebacker spot. If you want a tone-setter who can wreck plays and bring veteran edge, Pearce is your guy.
