James Pierce Jr., an edge rusher for the Atlanta Falcons and a projected first-round pick in 2025, faces three felony charges in connection with an incident on February 7 involving WNBA player Rikea Jackson. The charges include aggravated assault with a deadly weapon, fleeing from police, and resisting arrest with violence. Interestingly, a fourth charge of aggravated stalking was reduced to a misdemeanor, while another charge involving aggravated assault on an officer was dropped entirely.
Last month, Pierce was arrested near Miami following a domestic violence incident that reportedly involved Jackson—who made the All-Rookie Team in 2024 with the Los Angeles Sparks. It’s noted that Jackson was the fourth overall pick in the WNBA Draft out of Tennessee.
According to a complaint from the Miami-Dade State Attorney’s Office, Pierce allegedly attempted to evade law enforcement after colliding with Jackson’s vehicle. As the story goes, she noticed him following her in a luxury car. After stopping at a red light, he reportedly tried to open her car door. Following that, she drove towards a police station, and Pierce attempted to cut her off, leading to a collision.
When police arrived, they tried to apprehend Pierce, who allegedly got back into his car and fled. He was subsequently charged with resisting arrest after spending a night in jail, eventually posting bail of $20,500 on February 8.
Jackson has since filed for a protective order against Pierce, expressing fear for her life and accusing him of past verbal and physical abuse. She claimed he threatened her safety multiple times.
Pierce’s legal team maintains his innocence and emphasizes that while allegations can heavily influence public perception, they do not tell the complete story. They expressed confidence in Pierce’s ability to contribute positively to his team and community.
A hearing for the permanent injunction is set for April 21. The court has restricted Pierce from contacting Jackson and requires him to remain at least 500 feet away from her home, workplace, and 100 feet from her vehicle.
Pierce had a standout 2025 season, participating in all 17 games and achieving 10.5 sacks, along with 26 total tackles and five passes defensed.
