Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce Jr. faced a judge in court following his arrest on Sunday. He was brought into police custody after an alleged domestic dispute with WNBA star Rickea Jackson.
According to the reports, the linebacker's attorney tried to plead to the judge for a bond as an NFL residing in Georgia. However, the plea was rejected, and the judge set his bond at $20,500 and a stay-away order from Jackson.
On social media, a video clip of James Pearce Jr. being released on bond went viral. We see the rookie linebacker walking with his attorneys and refusing to comment on his situation. He made his way to his car without giving any statement.
Pearce was arrested on Saturday on two felony counts of aggravated battery with a weapon and a felony count of aggravated stalking. He was also charged with fleeing from police and misdemeanor counts of resisting arrest. A video of the linebacker being pinned by several officers following a car chase went viral on social media.
As per the talk show host Andy Slater, James Pearce Jr allegedly rammed his vehicle several times into Rickea Jackson's car.
"SLATER COOP: James Pearce Jr. is accused of intentionally crashing his Lamborghini into his ex-girlfriend's car multiple times, trying to stop her from getting to a police station, law enforcements sources tell me. That alleged incident led to cops chasing the NFL star."
The Falcons drafted Pearce with the 26th overall pick in last year's NFL draft. During his rookie season, he registered 26 total tackles, 10.5 sacks and 10 tackles for loss. The linebacker was also a finalist for this season's Rookie Defensive Player of the Year award.
NFL analyst drops opinion on James Pearce Jr.s' future
James Pearce Jr. had an amazing rookie season with the Falcons. However, after his arrest, there is a sense of uncertainty about his playing career.
On Saturday, analyst Hayden Winks expressed his opinion on the scenario. According to him, if Pearce is found guilty of engaging in violence with ex-girlfriend Rickea Jackson, then this could seriously hamper his playing career.
"If true, the NFL won't even have a choice about letting him play. He will be locked up," Winks said.
The Falcons also shared a statement after the rookie linebacker's arrest. They said that they are aware of the things and will do their due diligence before further commenting on this open legal case.