Atlanta Falcons Rookie Charged with Felonies After Alleged Incident with Ex-Girlfriend

James Pearce Jr. faces multiple charges including aggravated battery and stalking after alleged confrontation in Miami

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Atlanta Falcons rookie edge rusher James Pearce Jr. was arrested in Miami over the weekend and charged with several felonies, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer. The charges stem from an alleged incident where Pearce is accused of hitting a police officer with his Lamborghini while fleeing the scene of a domestic dispute with his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson.

Why it matters

The arrest of a high-profile NFL rookie on serious charges raises concerns about player conduct and the league's ability to address off-field incidents. The Falcons and the NFL will likely conduct their own investigations, and Pearce could face potential suspension depending on the outcome.

The details

According to reports, Pearce allegedly followed Jackson, his ex-girlfriend, to a police station in Doral, Florida and then intentionally crashed his vehicle into hers. When police arrived, Pearce is accused of striking an officer with his car while trying to flee the scene. He was eventually apprehended and charged with five felonies, including aggravated assault on a law enforcement officer, which carries a minimum 5-year prison sentence if convicted.

  • On Saturday morning, Pearce allegedly followed Jackson to her apartment complex and started following her in his SUV.
  • Pearce is accused of approaching Jackson's vehicle at a red light and attempting to open the door.
  • Jackson then drove to the Doral City Police Department, where Pearce allegedly started crashing into her vehicle.
  • Police arrived on the scene, and Pearce is accused of intentionally striking an officer with his car while trying to flee.
  • Pearce was arrested on Saturday and released on $20,500 bond on Sunday evening.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A 22-year-old rookie edge rusher for the Atlanta Falcons who was arrested on multiple felony charges in Miami.

Rickea Jackson

A WNBA player who was Pearce's ex-girlfriend and the alleged victim in the incident.

Doral City Police Department

The police department in Doral, Florida where the alleged incident took place.

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What they’re saying

“We look forward to working with the State Attorney's Office in fully investigating this case and uncovering the truth. Mr. Pearce maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that it is hardly the full, complete story. We look forward to vigorously defending our Client and remain confident that he will continue contributing positively to both his team and the community he serves so well.”

— Jacob Nunez, Yale Sanford, and Joshua Cohen, Pearce's legal team (si.com)

“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 (si.com)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow James Pearce Jr. out on bail pending the outcome of the legal proceedings.

The takeaway

This high-profile arrest of an NFL rookie on serious charges highlights the league's ongoing challenges in addressing player conduct issues and the need for greater accountability, both on and off the field.