Falcons Rookie Charged After Domestic Dispute with WNBA Player

James Pearce Jr. released on bond but ordered to stay away from Rickea Jackson

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Falcons rookie James Pearce Jr. has been released from custody after posting a $20,500 bond, but still faces charges for five felonies and a misdemeanor following a domestic dispute with WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Pearce, 22, has been given a pretrial conditional stay-away order from Jackson, 24, who plays for the Los Angeles Sparks.

Why it matters

Domestic violence incidents involving professional athletes have been a recurring issue in recent years, raising concerns about player conduct and the need for stronger accountability measures in professional sports leagues.

The details

According to police, the incident between Pearce and Jackson was classified as a domestic dispute. Pearce was charged with five felonies, including aggravated assault, and one misdemeanor. The specific details of the alleged incident have not been publicly released.

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

The players

James Pearce Jr.

A 22-year-old rookie for the Atlanta Falcons football team who was arrested and charged with five felonies and one misdemeanor following a domestic dispute with a WNBA player.

Rickea Jackson

A 24-year-old WNBA player for the Los Angeles Sparks who was involved in a domestic dispute with the Falcons rookie.

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What’s next

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

The takeaway

This case highlights the ongoing challenges professional sports leagues face in addressing domestic violence issues among their players, and the need for stronger policies and enforcement to protect victims and hold athletes accountable for their actions.