Falcons Rookie LB James Pearce Jr. Released on $20,500 Bond After Arrest

Pearce faces multiple felony charges following alleged domestic dispute with ex-girlfriend

Published on Feb. 8, 2026

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Atlanta Falcons rookie linebacker James Pearce Jr. has been released on $20,500 bond after being arrested in Florida on Saturday. Pearce is facing five felony charges and one misdemeanor, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer, and fleeing and eluding police officers. The charges stem from an alleged domestic dispute with his ex-girlfriend, Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson.

Why it matters

This incident raises concerns about off-field behavior and legal troubles for a promising young NFL player. The Falcons will need to closely monitor the situation and determine if further disciplinary action is warranted, which could impact the team's roster and performance for the upcoming season.

The details

According to reports, Pearce allegedly stalked Jackson, attempted to enter her vehicle, and then pursued and crashed into her car twice in an effort to prevent her from contacting police. Pearce is also accused of intentionally driving his vehicle into a police officer, allegedly hitting the officer's knee before being coaxed out of the car at gunpoint.

  • Pearce was arrested on Saturday, February 8, 2026.
  • Pearce posted $20,500 bond and was released on Sunday, February 9, 2026.

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A rookie linebacker for the Atlanta Falcons who was arrested on multiple felony charges following an alleged domestic dispute with his ex-girlfriend.

Rickea Jackson

A forward for the Los Angeles Sparks who was allegedly the victim of stalking and a vehicular attack by her ex-boyfriend, James Pearce Jr.

Atlanta Falcons

The NFL team that drafted James Pearce Jr. in the 2025 NFL Draft and will need to address this off-field incident involving one of their players.

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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 (Team statement)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Tuesday whether to allow Pearce to be released on bail again or to keep him in custody as the legal process continues.

The takeaway

This incident highlights the challenges professional sports teams face in managing the off-field behavior of their players. The Falcons will need to carefully navigate this situation to determine the appropriate course of action, balancing support for Pearce with the need to uphold the team's values and maintain public trust.