Atlanta Falcons rookie edge rusher James Pearce Jr. is facing serious legal trouble following a domestic dispute involving WNBA star Rickea Jackson, his ex-girlfriend. The situation, which unfolded earlier this month, has taken a new turn with Jackson now signaling her willingness to testify in court.
According to police reports, officers were dispatched to the scene of a dispute between Pearce and Jackson. Pearce allegedly fled the scene, leading to a crash near Northwest 103rd Avenue and 66th Street, where he was later detained. The details that have emerged since paint a troubling picture.
FOX Sports’ Andy Slater reported that Pearce is accused of intentionally ramming his Lamborghini into Jackson’s vehicle multiple times. The reported motive: to prevent her from reaching a police station. The incident escalated further when Pearce allegedly struck a police officer in the knee with his vehicle.
Now, Rickea Jackson has taken a definitive step. Her legal team filed a court notice in Miami-Dade County stating that she is prepared to testify against Pearce if the case goes to trial. That’s a significant development, as it signals her intent to be an active participant in the legal process and could heavily influence how the case unfolds.
On the other side, Pearce is being represented by attorneys Jacob Nunez, Yale Sanford, and Joshua Cohen. In a public statement, the legal team emphasized that Pearce maintains his innocence and is cooperating with the investigation.
“We look forward to working with the State Attorney’s Office in fully investigating this case and uncovering the truth,” the statement read. “Mr.
Pearce maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that is hardly the full, complete story.”
The legal process will ultimately determine the outcome, but the implications for Pearce’s football future are hard to ignore. The rookie defensive standout made a major impact in his first season, racking up 10.5 sacks and establishing himself as a rising force on the Falcons' front seven. But with these charges looming, his availability - and possibly his roster spot - could be in jeopardy as the team prepares for the upcoming season.
For now, the Falcons have yet to make a public statement regarding Pearce’s status with the team. But with training camp on the horizon and the legal process in motion, this is a situation that will be closely watched by both the league and fans alike.