Atlanta Falcons Player Charged with Felonies After Domestic Incident

WNBA Star Rickea Jackson Says Pearce Threatened to Kill Her

Mar. 13, 2026 at 5:25pm

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Atlanta Falcons defensive end James Pearce, a former University of Tennessee football star, was charged with three felonies and one misdemeanor in Miami-Dade County over a domestic incident on Feb. 7 involving WNBA player Rickea Jackson, a former Lady Vols star. On March 12, the Florida State Attorney's office charged Pearce after Jackson said "James will kill me."

Why it matters

Domestic violence incidents involving professional athletes have come under increased scrutiny in recent years, with many calling for harsher penalties and better support systems for victims. This case highlights the ongoing challenges in addressing these complex situations.

The details

According to authorities, the incident occurred on Feb. 7 in Miami-Dade County. Pearce was charged with three felonies - aggravated assault, battery, and false imprisonment - as well as one misdemeanor count of criminal mischief. The charges stem from Jackson's statement to police that Pearce had threatened to kill her.

  • The incident occurred on February 7, 2026.
  • Pearce was charged on March 12, 2026.

The players

James Pearce

A defensive end for the Atlanta Falcons and former University of Tennessee football star.

Rickea Jackson

A WNBA player and former Lady Vols star.

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What they’re saying

“James will kill me.”

— Rickea Jackson (Florida State Attorney's Office)

What’s next

The judge will decide on Pearce's bail status at a hearing next week.

The takeaway

This case underscores the need for professional sports leagues and law enforcement to have robust policies and support systems in place to address domestic violence allegations involving athletes, in order to protect victims and hold offenders accountable.