Falcons Rookie James Pearce Jr. Arrested in Florida on Aggravated Battery and Stalking Charges

Published: February 8, 2026 • By Swikriti

Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. was arrested in South Florida on Saturday and is facing multiple charges, including two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, aggravated stalking, and fleeing and eluding police, according to police records and local reporting.

Authorities said the situation stemmed from a domestic dispute involving Pearce and his girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Police officials reported Pearce left the scene and was later taken into custody after his vehicle crashed near Northwest 103rd Avenue and 66th Street.

Pearce was booked into the Turner Guilford Knight Correctional Center in Miami-Dade County. As of the latest public update, his bond had not yet been set.

The Falcons acknowledged the incident in a brief statement, saying the team is aware and is gathering more information, but would not comment further because it is an open legal matter.

Pearce, selected No. 26 overall in the 2025 NFL Draft, emerged as one of the league’s most productive rookies last season. He recorded 10.5 sacks, along with 26 total tackles, 10 tackles for loss, and a forced fumble.

The legal process is ongoing, and further details are expected as authorities and the courts move the case forward. For a detailed overview of the reported charges and timeline, see the coverage from The Associated Press.