James Pearce Jr. Arrested: Atlanta Falcons Rookie Faces Felony Charges in Alleged Domestic Incident with WNBA Star Rickea Jackson
James Pearce Jr., Atlanta Falcons rookie edge rusher (Photo: NFL)
Rickea Jackson, Los Angeles Sparks forward (Photo: WNBA)
Breaking: Atlanta Falcons Rookie James Pearce Jr. Arrested on Serious Charges Following Alleged Domestic Incident with WNBA Star Rickea Jackson
February 8, 2026 — In a stunning turn of events, Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. (sometimes searched as James Pearce, James Pierce Jr., or James Pierce) was arrested today in South Florida on multiple felony charges stemming from an alleged domestic dispute involving his girlfriend, Los Angeles Sparks forward Rickea Jackson.
According to multiple reports from authorities and major outlets, the 22-year-old NFL rookie faces two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, one count of aggravated stalking, and additional charges related to fleeing police. The incident reportedly began as a domestic disturbance, after which Pearce Jr. allegedly fled the scene in a vehicle, leading to a police pursuit that ended when he crashed.
“This is a developing story involving serious allegations. We are closely monitoring updates and urge respect for all parties involved while the legal process unfolds.”
What We Know So Far
Police in Doral, Florida, confirmed the arrest occurred on Saturday evening. Sources including CBS Sports, USA Today, and The Athletic report that the alleged victim was identified as WNBA player Rickea Jackson. No official statements have been released by the Falcons, the Sparks, or representatives for either athlete at this time.
Background on the Athletes
James Pearce Jr. was selected by the Atlanta Falcons with the No. 26 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft after a standout college career at the University of Tennessee. Known for his explosive pass-rush ability, he quickly became one of the league’s promising young defensive stars.
Rickea Jackson, also a former Tennessee Volunteer, was drafted fourth overall by the Los Angeles Sparks in 2024. In the 2025 WNBA season, she averaged 14.7 points, 3.2 rebounds, and 1.7 assists per game, establishing herself as a key scorer for the Sparks.
The two athletes, both University of Tennessee alumni, have been publicly linked as a couple, which has now drawn significant attention amid these allegations.
Developing Story
As more details emerge, we will continue to update this post with verified information from credible sources. Domestic violence allegations are extremely serious, and we encourage readers to rely on official reports rather than speculation.
By Marjorie | Qalamkaar News Desk
Related Reading on Qalamkaar:
- 2025 NFL Draft Highlights: James Pearce Jr. Joins the Falcons
- WNBA 2025 Season Recap: Rickea Jackson's Breakout Year
- Latest Sports Updates & Breaking News
#BreakingNews #JamesPearceJr #RickeaJackson #NFL #WNBA #AtlantaFalcons #LosAngelesSparks #SportsUpdates #CurrentEvents #Qalamkaar
© 2026 Qalamkaar. All rights reserved. Original reporting — share with credit.
Comments