Falcons Edge Rusher James Pearce Jr. Returns to Team Facility Ahead of Minicamp

Atlanta Falcons edge rusher James Pearce Jr. was at the team facility on Monday, June 15, 2026, after being absent since his February arrest. ESPN's Adam Schefter reported that Pearce is back with the Falcons and expected to take part in this week's minicamp.

The second-year player had been away from the facility since February. Pearce, 22, was arrested in February 2026 on charges including aggravated battery with a deadly weapon after allegedly ramming his vehicle into a car driven by his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson. The arrest occurred near a Doral, Florida, police station.

When police responded, Pearce allegedly fled in his car, crashed, and then fled on foot. He faced felony charges of aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing police, and resisting arrest, plus misdemeanor stalking. Last month, a Florida court approved Pearce for a one-year diversion program.

Under the program, charges will be dropped if he stays out of trouble for one year, passes random drug tests, and remains compliant with a mental health treatment program. He must also stay away from Jackson for one year. Jackson filed a petition for a protective order against Pearce in February 2026, which she later dropped.

NFL spokesperson Brian McCarthy stated on Monday that Pearce's situation remains under review of the personal conduct policy. Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski said the team has been in close contact with Pearce's legal representative. 5 sacks last season, a Falcons rookie record, and finished third in AP Defensive Rookie of the Year voting.

He is not expected to speak to the media during minicamp. The Falcons will hold minicamp practices on Tuesday and Wednesday.