Falcons Rookie James Pearce Jr Faces Serious Felony Charges Following Miami Arrest
Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr, a rookie drafted in 2025, has been detained on five felony charges after an incident in Miami that allegedly involved striking a police officer and crashing into a vehicle driven by WNBA player Rickea Jackson. According to ESPN reports, the 22-year-old was arrested on Saturday and released on a $20,500 bond the following night.
Details of the Alleged Incident and Criminal Charges
The criminal complaint, obtained by ESPN from the Miami-Dade County state attorney's office, outlines severe allegations against Pearce. The charges include aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer. These stem from events that unfolded after Jackson, a forward for the Los Angeles Sparks, reported that Pearce followed her in a Lamborghini SUV and attempted to open her car door at a red light.
Jackson informed police that she drove away toward a police station, but Pearce pursued her, eventually crashing into the rear of her car and then colliding head-on near the station. When officers arrived, Pearce allegedly refused to comply with orders, got back into his SUV, and hit an officer's knee while trying to evade arrest. After a pursuit, his vehicle crashed at an intersection, and he fled on foot before being apprehended while resisting arrest.
Background and Relationship Details
Jackson revealed to authorities that she had recently ended a three-year relationship with Pearce and had blocked his number. However, he continued to text her from another phone, and she provided these messages as evidence. Pearce and Jackson both attended the University of Tennessee, where Pearce played college football before being selected by the Falcons with the 26th overall pick in the 2025 NFL draft. He finished third in AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting this season.
Team Response and Legal Proceedings
The Atlanta Falcons issued a statement on Saturday night, acknowledging the incident and stating they are gathering more information, with no further comment on the open legal matter. As the case progresses, Pearce faces significant legal repercussions, with the felony charges carrying potential severe penalties. The incident has drawn attention due to the high-profile nature of those involved and the violent allegations.
This case highlights ongoing issues in professional sports regarding off-field conduct and legal accountability. Authorities continue to investigate, and Pearce's future in the NFL may be impacted by the outcome of these charges.
