James Pearce Jr. grabbed headlines for all the wron reasons on Saturday. The Atlanta Falcons linebacker was arrested after fleeing from a domestic dispute in Florida.
Is James Pearce Jr's career over?
While more details about Pearce's arrest are yet to be disclosed, Falcons insider Kevin Knight has said that the linebacker's NFL career might be finished at 22.
"James Pearce Jr. appears to have committed several very serious crimes. His NFL career is likely over," Knight tweeted on Saturday.
As per reports, Pearce was arrested after crashing his vehicle after a police chase and avoiding arrest. Reports also suggested that the Falcons star had a domestic dispute with WNBA star Rickea Jackson.
The Falcons shared a statement following Pearce's arrest.
“We are aware of an incident involving James Pearce Jr. in Miami," the Falcons said in a statement provided to The Associated Press. "We are in the process of gathering more information and will not have any further comment on an open legal matter at this time.”
Police records suggest that Pearce is facing charges of two counts of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, as well as aggravated stalking and feeling or eluding police with lights or sirens. His bond was not set on all the charges.
James Pearce Jr's impact in Falcons in 2025
The Falcons signed James Pearce Jr. with the No. 26 pick of the 2025 NFL draft. He was named to the PFWA All-Rookie Team.
Pearce wrapped up his rookie season with 26 tackles (17 solo), 10 tackles for defeat, 16 QB hits, 10.5 sacks and five passes defended across 17 games. The Falcons finished with an 8-9 record, failing to make the playoffs.
Pearce penned a four-year, $16.8 million rookie contract. However, it remains to be seen if he will return to the team next season after his arrest.