James Pearce Jr. enters program that could drop charges from domestic dispute involving Rickea Jackson

An NFL spokesperson told The Times that the league has been "closely monitoring all developments in the matter which remains under review of the personal conduct policy."

Falcons coach Kevin Stefanski confirmed on April 8 that Pearce was not at the practice facility for the start of the team’s voluntary offseason program. The team did not immediately respond to a request for comment.

Doral police have described the incident that led to Pearce's arrest as a domestic dispute. Jackson said she was attempting to drive away from Pearce and seek help, according to the police account, when he “intentionally collided into the rear of her vehicle with his SUV” before police arrived.

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Pearce allegedly refused an initial order from police to “get on the floor,” according to the arrest affidavit, then drove away and hit a police officer’s left knee with his vehicle “intentionally in an attempt to evade arrest.”

“Mr. Pearce maintains his innocence and urges the public to understand that while allegations have the power to shape a narrative, that it is hardly the full, complete story,” Nunez told the Associated Press soon after his arrest. “We look forward to vigorously defending our client.”

Atlanta selected Pearce in the first round of the 2025 NFL draft after trading with the Rams to move up to No. 26. He recorded 10.5 sacks and 26 tackles and finished third in voting for defensive rookie of the year.

Jackson was selected by the Sparks at No. 4 overall in the 2024 draft. She averaged 14 points a game and was traded to the Chicago Sky for guard Ariel Atkins earlier this month.

The Associated Press contributed to this report.

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This story originally appeared in Los Angeles Times.