James Pearce Jr., a rookie standout for the Atlanta Falcons, was taken into custody near Miami on Saturday night after evading police and crashing his vehicle in connection to a domestic dispute involving WNBA player Rickea Jackson. The incident prompted law enforcement intervention and led to Pearce’s arrest.
Details of the Arrest and Charges
Pearce, who was the Falcons’ first-round draft pick and led his team in sacks during his rookie NFL season, was booked at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. Doral police responded to reports of a domestic disturbance between Pearce and Jackson, investigating the case thoroughly. Jail records detail that Pearce faces two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing or eluding police using lights or sirens. His bond status has not been fully determined.
Reactions from the Falcons and Police Authorities
The Atlanta Falcons acknowledged the arrest in a brief statement released to The Associated Press.
“We are aware of an incident involving James Pearce Jr. in Miami,”
the team confirmed.
“We are in the process of gathering more information and will not have any further comment on an open legal matter at this time.”
Doral Police Chief Edwin Lopez verified the dispute between the two athletes, identifying Rickea Jackson as a forward for the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA. Jackson was the fourth overall pick in the 2024 WNBA draft and had a 14.7 points per game average in the 2025 season, appearing consistently as a starter during her time at Tennessee and Mississippi State.
Background on James Pearce Jr. and Recent Falcons Changes
James Pearce Jr. was selected 26th overall in the 2025 NFL draft, joining the Falcons as a defensive edge rusher. During his rookie year, Pearce recorded 10.5 sacks and 45 quarterback pressures, setting a franchise rookie record, with notable contributions including 26 tackles, 16 quarterback hits, and forced and recovered fumbles across all 17 games.
The Falcons recently ended their 8-9 season with coaching and management changes, dismissing head coach Raheem Morris and general manager Terry Fontenot. Kevin Stefanski was named the new head coach, with Ian Cunningham appointed general manager ahead of the next season.
Potential Implications and Next Steps
This arrest highlights ongoing concerns around domestic disputes involving professional athletes. As legal proceedings continue, the Falcons and judicial system will determine the consequences for Pearce. The developments could impact Pearce’s career and raise broader discussions about athlete conduct and accountability within major sports leagues.
