Falcons DE James Pearce Jr. arrested after police pursuit in Florida

Pearce, a 2025 first-round draft pick, faces multiple charges after fleeing a domestic dispute and crashing his vehicle.

Published on Feb. 7, 2026

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Atlanta Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. was arrested on February 7th in Doral, Florida, after police say he fled a domestic dispute at the Doral police headquarters and later crashed his vehicle during a police pursuit. Pearce, a 22-year-old rookie, faces multiple charges including aggravated battery, aggravated stalking, and fleeing/eluding police.

Why it matters

Pearce was a promising young player for the Falcons, finishing runner-up for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2025 after a strong debut season. This arrest raises concerns about his off-field behavior and could potentially impact his standing with the team and future in the league.

The details

According to police, Pearce was involved in a domestic dispute at the Doral police headquarters when he fled the scene. He then crashed the vehicle he was driving during a subsequent police pursuit. Pearce was arrested and charged with multiple offenses, including aggravated battery, aggravated stalking, fleeing/eluding police, and resisting an officer.

  • On February 7, 2026, Pearce was involved in a domestic dispute at the Doral police headquarters.
  • On February 7, 2026, Pearce fled the scene and crashed his vehicle during a police pursuit.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A 22-year-old defensive end for the Atlanta Falcons who was a first-round draft pick in 2025 and finished runner-up for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year.

Edwin Lopez

The Doral Police Chief who provided details about Pearce's arrest.

Mike Garafolo

An NFL Network reporter who shared the Falcons' statement regarding Pearce's arrest.

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What they’re saying

“We are aware of an incident involving James Pearce Jr., in Miami. We are in the process of gathering more information and will not have any further comment on an open legal matter at this time.”

— Atlanta Falcons (NFL Network)

What’s next

The judge will determine whether to grant Pearce bail as he awaits trial on the multiple charges he faces.

The takeaway

This arrest of a promising young NFL player raises concerns about his off-field behavior and could have significant implications for his future with the Falcons and in the league if the charges are substantiated.