[REVISION HISTORY]

NFL suspension of James Pearce Jr

Updated 3 times since CLSTR started tracking revisions of this situation.

What changed

2026-08-14 22:55 UTC → 2026-08-15 04:09 UTC · added ~~removed~~

The NFL has issued an eight-game suspension to Atlanta Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. The unpaid suspension is scheduled to begin on August 30, making him eligible for reinstatement on November 2. The disciplinary action stems from a February arrest in Doral, Florida, involving a domestic dispute with former girlfriend and WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Police reports indicate that Pearce allegedly rammed his vehicle into Jackson’s car multiple times while she was attempting to reach a police station. During the incident, he also allegedly struck a police officer with his vehicle while attempting to evade arrest. While Pearce faced felony charges, including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, his aggravated stalking charge was reduced to a misdemeanor, and the charge for aggravated battery of a law enforcement officer was dropped. Pearce has since entered a pretrial intervention program. Successful completion of this program, which requires undergoing random drug testing and staying away from Jackson, could lead to the dismissal of his remaining ~~charges.~~ charges, which include aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and misdemeanor stalking. Jackson has filed a protective order against the player. Although Pearce is permitted to participate in preseason activities and practices, his absence is noted as a significant blow to the Falcons' defense, particularly following a season-ending ACL injury to fellow first-round pick Jalon Walker. Pearce, a 2025 first-round pick, recorded 10.5 sacks during his rookie season.

Versions

Only revisions since CLSTR began indexing content versions appear here. Select a version to see what changed compared to the one before it.