Falcons Rookie Arrested After Domestic Dispute, Police Chase

James Pearce Jr. faces multiple charges following incident in Miami

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Atlanta Falcons rookie James Pearce Jr. was arrested near Miami on Saturday after fleeing officers and crashing his car following a reported domestic dispute with his WNBA girlfriend. Pearce, who had a standout rookie season, is facing charges that include aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing or eluding police.

Why it matters

The arrest of a high-profile NFL player like Pearce, who was a top defensive rookie last season, raises concerns about off-field behavior and the league's handling of domestic violence issues. It also puts the Falcons in a difficult position as they navigate the legal process and potential disciplinary action.

The details

According to police, officers were called to investigate a reported domestic dispute between Pearce and a woman, believed to be his WNBA girlfriend. Pearce then fled the scene, leading police on a chase that ended in a crash. He was booked into the Turner Guilford Correctional Center and is facing multiple charges, including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing or eluding police.

  • On Saturday, February 8, 2026, police were called to investigate a reported domestic dispute involving Pearce.
  • Pearce then fled the scene, leading to a police chase that ended in a crash.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A 22-year-old rookie linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons who had a standout debut season, finishing third in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting.

Atlanta Falcons

The NFL team that drafted Pearce with the 26th overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft.

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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 (foxnews.com)

What’s next

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

The takeaway

This arrest highlights the ongoing challenges the NFL faces in addressing off-field issues involving its players, particularly in cases of domestic violence. The Falcons and the league will need to carefully navigate the legal process and potential disciplinary action, while also considering the impact on Pearce's career and the team's reputation.