Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. was arrested over the weekend following a dramatic incident in South Florida that began as what police described as a domestic dispute involving WNBA forward Rickea Jackson, authorities and legal filings say.
The 22-year-old defensive standout, a first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, was taken into custody Saturday after officers responded to reports of a disturbance between Pearce and Jackson in Doral, near Miami. According to police, the encounter escalated into a vehicular incident that ended with a police pursuit and a crash.
Felony Charges and Arrest Details
Pearce faces multiple felony counts, including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, along with charges for fleeing and eluding police, records show.
Reporters say Pearce allegedly followed Jackson’s vehicle in his Lamborghini SUV and twice struck her car before officers arrived. During his attempt to flee, Pearce’s vehicle reportedly struck a police officer’s knee. After crashing his vehicle, he attempted to avoid arrest on foot before officers took him into custody.
Court Appearance and Bond
Pearce appeared in Miami-Dade bond court on Sunday. A judge set bond at approximately $20,500 and issued a pre-trial stay-away order requiring him to avoid contact with Jackson.
His attorney, Jacob Nunez, issued a statement saying Pearce “maintains his innocence” and that the full story has yet to be revealed in the ongoing legal process.
Team and League Response
The Atlanta Falcons acknowledged the incident in a brief statement, saying they are aware of the situation and gathering information, but declined further comment on an open legal matter. The NFL has yet to announce whether Pearce will face disciplinary action under its personal conduct policy.
Background on Those Involved
Jackson, a forward for the Los Angeles Sparks and a 2024 No. 4 overall draft pick, was identified by police as the other party in the dispute. The pair had previously been in a relationship but reportedly ended it last year.
Pearce finished his rookie season with 10.5 sacks, earning him third place in voting for the Associated Press Defensive Rookie of the Year.
