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Falcons Rookie Pearce Avoids 1 of 5 Charges From Arrest
Prosecutors drop felony charge against Atlanta's 2025 first-round pick after reviewing body cam footage.
Mar. 13, 2026 at 3:34pm
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Atlanta Falcons rookie edge rusher James Pearce Jr. will not be charged on one of the five counts filed after his February 7 arrest in Florida. Prosecutors dropped the felony charge of aggravated battery on a law enforcement officer after reviewing police body-camera footage and determining there was insufficient evidence. Pearce now faces three felony counts and one misdemeanor related to an incident involving his ex-girlfriend, Rickea Jackson of the Los Angeles Sparks.
Why it matters
This case highlights the legal challenges facing young NFL players and the importance of due process, as well as the broader issue of domestic violence in professional sports. The dropped charge could impact Pearce's potential punishment and playing status moving forward.
The details
Court documents state the remaining charges against Pearce include aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing or eluding police with lights or sirens activated, and resisting an officer with violence. He is also facing a misdemeanor stalking charge. The arrest occurred in Doral, Florida, after police alleged Pearce followed Jackson's vehicle, attempted to open her door, and later rammed his Lamborghini SUV into both the front and rear of her car. Authorities said he then tried to block her access to a police station while she attempted to seek help.
- Pearce's arrest occurred on February 7, 2026.
- Prosecutors dropped the felony charge on March 13, 2026.
The players
James Pearce Jr.
A 22-year-old rookie edge rusher for the Atlanta Falcons, selected 26th overall in the 2025 NFL Draft.
Rickea Jackson
A player for the Los Angeles Sparks in the WNBA, and Pearce's ex-girlfriend who filed a protective order against him.
What they’re saying
“We must not let individuals continue to damage private property in San Francisco.”
— Robert Jenkins, San Francisco resident (San Francisco Chronicle)
What’s next
The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.
The takeaway
This case highlights the legal challenges facing young NFL players and the importance of due process, as well as the broader issue of domestic violence in professional sports. The dropped charge could impact Pearce's potential punishment and playing status moving forward.
