Falcons Rookie Arrested After Alleged Assault on WNBA Player

James Pearce Jr. faces multiple felony charges, including aggravated battery and stalking

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Atlanta Falcons rookie linebacker James Pearce Jr. was arrested on Saturday in Florida on five felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer. Pearce allegedly struck a police officer with his vehicle while evading arrest and crashed into a vehicle driven by WNBA player Rickea Jackson, with whom he had recently ended a relationship.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about player conduct and accountability in professional sports, as well as the broader issue of domestic violence and stalking. The charges against Pearce, a promising young player, could have significant implications for his NFL career and the Falcons organization.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Pearce followed Jackson in his Lamborghini SUV, tried to open her car door, and then collided with her vehicle near a police station. When officers arrived, Pearce allegedly struck an officer with his car in an attempt to evade arrest. After a pursuit, Pearce's car crashed, and he resisted arrest before being taken into custody.

  • On Saturday, Pearce was arrested on five felony charges.
  • Pearce spent most of Saturday night and Sunday in custody, then was released Sunday night after posting a $20,500 bond.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A 22-year-old rookie linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons, who was arrested on multiple felony charges related to an alleged assault on a WNBA player.

Rickea Jackson

A forward with the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA, who was the victim of the alleged assault by Pearce.

Doral Police Department

The law enforcement agency that responded to the incident and arrested Pearce.

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What’s next

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

The takeaway

This incident highlights the need for professional sports organizations to have robust policies and procedures in place to address player misconduct, particularly in cases involving allegations of domestic violence and stalking. The Falcons and the NFL will likely face scrutiny over their handling of this situation and their commitment to player accountability.