James Pearce suspended 8 games by NFL after offseason domestic-violence arrest
James Pearce entered an intervention program in April.
The NFL has suspended Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce for eight games following an offseason domestic-violence arrest, ESPN's Adam Schefter reported. The 22-year-old was charged with multiple violent offenses in February, with one count later dropped. Pearce allegedly pursued his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson, causing a collision and then fleeing from police.
If he completes a pre-trial intervention program, all charges could be dropped and he would avoid jail time. The NFL can take disciplinary action against players without a formal charge. Pearce missed time during OTAs but played in training camp and preseason games. He will be eligible to return in Week 9 against the Cincinnati Bengals.
Selected in the 2025 NFL Draft, Pearce had a strong rookie season with 10.5 sacks in 17 games and was third in Defensive Rookie of the Year voting.
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