Falcons Linebacker James Pearce Jr. Arrested Following Domestic Dispute

Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. found himself in legal trouble over the weekend when he was arrested in Miami following a domestic incident with Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson, as reported by the police. The situation escalated when Pearce crashed his car during a police pursuit, according to Doral Police Chief Edwin Lopez.

Pearce’s arrest took place on Saturday evening, with charges including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated stalking, all related to domestic violence, as revealed by online records. Additionally, Pearce faces charges of aggravated battery of an officer, attempting to flee or elude police with sirens active, and resisting an officer without violence.

The linebacker is currently being held at the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center. During a virtual court appearance on Sunday, it was confirmed that the weapon in question was a vehicle. Presiding Judge Jacqueline Woodward issued a no-contact order, requiring Pearce to maintain a distance of at least 500 feet from Jackson’s residence. The bond for all charges was set at $20,500.

Although the exact nature of Pearce and Jackson’s relationship remains unclear, both attended the University of Tennessee during overlapping years, where Pearce played football and Jackson excelled in basketball from 2022 to 2024.

Pearce, aged 22, is a rookie in the NFL, having been selected in the first round of the 2025 draft by the Falcons. In response to the incident, the Falcons organization released a statement acknowledging their awareness of the situation and noted they are actively gathering more information. They declined to comment further, citing the ongoing legal proceedings.

James Pearce Jr. maintains his innocence and urges the public to remember that allegations can influence perceptions, but they don’t provide the complete story,

said Attorney Jacob Nunez, representing Pearce. He added, “We eagerly anticipate defending our client and have confidence in his ability to continue making positive contributions to his team and the community.”

A video circulated on social media, verified by the Doral Police Department, showing Pearce being apprehended by multiple officers. As of now, representatives for Jackson have not responded to inquiries for comments, and her attorney refrained from providing statements.

Jackson, 24, has gained recognition in the WNBA, having been the Los Angeles Sparks’ fourth overall pick in 2024. She distinguished herself in the league by averaging 14.7 points in 38 games during the 2025 season.