James Pearce Jr. has received a lengthy suspension from the NFL, stemming from his alleged domestic dispute with ex-girlfriend and WNBA star, Rickea Jackson.
The Atlanta Falcons selected James Pearce Jr. in the first round in 2025. He impressed in his first year with the team, playing in 17 games and winning Defensive Rookie of the Month in December last year.
Unfortunately, most of his headlines in 2026 have come off the field. In February, the Falcons man was allegedly involved in a violent dispute with his ex-girlfriend, WNBA star Rickea Jackson.
As per the accusations, Pearce Jr. allegedly rammed Jackson’s car with his own. His charges included aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing police, resisting arrest and misdemeanour stalking.
James Pearce Jr. handed an 8-game suspension for violating NFL’s personal conduct policy
Pearce Jr. reportedly attacked Jackson following an attempt from the WNBA player to end their relationship.
As per reports, charges will be dropped if he completes a one-year pretrial intervention program requiring random drug tests, staying away from Jackson and avoiding legal trouble.
However, this doesn’t mean that the 22-year-old isn’t already facing punishment.
“Falcons DE James Pearce Jr. is being suspended eight regular-season games for violating the NFL’s personal conduct policy,” Adam Schefter reported on X.
“Pearce was arrested in February, in Doral, Florida, after a domestic dispute involving his ex-girlfriend, WNBA forward Rickea Jackson.”
Losing the pass rusher for eight games will be a blow for the Falcons, but the league is likely trying to make a bit of an example here. Players ideally shouldn’t find themselves in situations like this.
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