James Pearce Jr. not with Falcons amid legal issues

Atlanta Falcons’ first-round pick in the 2025 NFL Draft, James Pearce Jr., is in the midst of legal issues involving an alleged vehicle crash with WNBA star Rickea Jackson. On Wednesday, new head coach Kevin Stefanski revealed Pearce’s status with the organization in early April.

Reports indicate that Pearce, who is 22 years old, is not with the Falcons right now for the team’s voluntary offseason workout program, according to Marc Raimondi of ESPN. The workout program is voluntary, so Pearce does not technically have to be present.

“Atlanta Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski said Wednesday that edge rusher James Pearce Jr. is not with the team at the start of the voluntary offseason workout program,” reported Riamondi.

The 43-year-old head coach did claim, however, that the Falcons have remained in touch with Pearce throughout the offseason. Kevin Stefanski and the franchise are communicating with whoever represents Pearce, at the very least.

“We’ve been in constant communication with his representation,” said Stefanski.

James Pearce Jr. faces four charges, with three of them being felonies. He allegedly crashed his vehicle into another car that was being driven by Rickea Jackson, who is Pearce’s ex-girlfriend. The alleged incident took place in February 2026. His trial hearing is scheduled on May 4, located in Miami-Dade County. Additionally, a dating violence hearing for Jackson’s protective order against Pearce is set for May 6.

The outcome of James Pearce Jr.’s legal situation is pending. He was initially viewed as a potential long-term star for the Falcons after emerging as a standout edge rusher on the defensive line. Pearce ended the 2025-26 campaign with 26 combined tackles (17 solo), 10.5 sacks, one forced fumble, and a fumble recovery.