NFL Star Arrested in Florida After Alleged Dispute with WNBA Player

Atlanta Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. faces multiple charges following a weekend incident in Doral.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Atlanta Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. was arrested in Doral, Florida on Saturday, February 7th after an alleged domestic dispute with WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Pearce is accused of ramming Jackson's vehicle, striking a police officer with his SUV while fleeing the scene, and leading authorities on a brief chase before crashing his vehicle and attempting to flee on foot. Pearce was charged with multiple felonies, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon and aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer.

Why it matters

The incident raises concerns about player conduct and accountability in professional sports, especially given the high-profile nature of Pearce's NFL career. It also highlights the broader issue of domestic violence, which remains a persistent problem in many professional sports leagues.

The details

According to the criminal complaint, Pearce was following Jackson and rammed her vehicle on Saturday morning. When police arrived, Pearce got back into his SUV and drove away, intentionally striking an officer's knee in an attempt to evade arrest. Pearce then crashed his vehicle and tried to flee on foot before being apprehended by police. He was taken to a hospital for assessment before being booked into jail, where he remained until Sunday night.

  • The incident occurred on Saturday, February 7, 2026.
  • Pearce was released from jail on Sunday night, February 8, 2026, after posting $20,500 bond.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A defensive end for the Atlanta Falcons who was the runner-up for NFL Defensive Rookie of the Year in 2025 after recording 10.5 sacks and a forced fumble.

Rickea Jackson

A WNBA player who called the police on Saturday morning to report that Pearce was following her and had rammed her vehicle.

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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 (ESPN)

“We have been in contact with the club regarding the matter which will be reviewed under the personal conduct policy.”

— Brian McCarthy, NFL spokesperson (ESPN)

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 ongoing challenges professional sports leagues face in addressing player misconduct, particularly when it involves allegations of domestic violence. The outcome of Pearce's case will be closely watched, as it could set a precedent for how the NFL handles similar situations in the future.