Atlanta Falcons linebacker James Pearce could have all charges against him dismissed if he completes a pre-trial intervention program, according to NFL Network.
Pearce, who was arrested in February, reportedly agreed to enter the program Thursday, per his attorneys. If he meets the conditions of that program — which include therapy and staying away from his ex-girlfriend, per ESPN — Pearce would reportedly have all charges against him dismissed.
Pearce, 22, was initially arrested in February following an incident with his ex-girlfriend, WNBA player Rickea Jackson. Pearce allegedly stalked Jackson and then caused a collision as Pearce pursued Jackson in a car. Jackson was attempting to reach a police station at the time of the collision.
The incident then allegedly led to a police chase, which ended after Pearce crashed his car and fled on foot. He was eventually arrested and received five charges.
In March, one of those charges was dropped, leading to Pearce being charged with three felonies — aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing and eluding police, and resisting an officer with violence to his or her person.
He was also charged with aggravated stalking, a misdemeanor.
If Pearce completes his pre-trial intervention, those charges will be dismissed, per multiple reports. That agreement was reportedly made after speaking with police and Jackson. There would be “no jail time and no admission of guilt” if Pearce completes the program, per NFL Network.
Pearce turned in a strong rookie season with the Falcons after the team made him the No. 26 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. He registered 10.5 sacks in his first year, finishing third in the Rookie of the Year voting.
The NFL is reportedly “closely monitoring” the situation, per NFL Network. If charges are dropped against Pearce, the league could still take action against the linebacker.