Falcons Edge Rusher James Pearce Jr. Enters Pretrial Program as Felony Charges Near Dismissal

 Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. is set to enter a pretrial intervention program that could lead to the dismissal of multiple felony charges tied to a February incident involving his former partner, Rickea Jackson.

According to his legal team, the six-month diversion program offers Pearce a pathway to resolve the case without a conviction. Attorney Jacob Nunez confirmed that if Pearce completes the program without any violations, all felony and misdemeanor charges will be dropped. In a joint statement with co-counsel Yale Sanford, Nunez emphasized that the 25-year-old is focused on returning to the field, rejoining the Falcons, and continuing his role as a committed teammate both on and off the field.

The Atlanta Falcons have yet to publicly comment on Pearce’s current status, as uncertainty continues to surround his standing with the organization. The development was first reported by WSB-TV.

The legal update arrives at a pivotal moment—coinciding with the opening of the NFL Draft, exactly one year after Pearce was selected 26th overall in 2025. His rookie campaign proved impactful, as he led Atlanta with 10.5 sacks and recorded 45 quarterback pressures, setting a franchise rookie record.

However, the off-field situation has cast a shadow over his early success. First-year head coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed earlier this month that Pearce was absent from the team’s voluntary offseason program, while general manager Ian Cunningham noted there had been no change in his status.

The charges, filed March 13 by the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, include aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting an officer with violence, along with a misdemeanor stalking charge. A separate count of aggravated battery of a police officer was later dropped.

Authorities allege the incident began when Jackson attempted to leave the scene and drive toward a nearby police station. According to the police report, Pearce intentionally struck the rear of her vehicle with his SUV. The situation escalated further when he allegedly ignored commands from officers, fled the scene, and struck an officer’s knee with his vehicle while attempting to evade arrest.

As the legal process shifts toward resolution, Pearce’s future in Atlanta remains uncertain—hinging not only on the outcome of the diversion program but also on how the organization chooses to move forward.