Atlanta Falcons defensive end James Pearce Jr. Has been suspended for the first eight games of the 2026 NFL season. The suspension follows a domestic violence incident involving his girlfriend, WNBA star Rickea Jackson. The NFL announced the decision as part of its personal conduct policy.

The league cited three felony charges related to the dispute. Pearce was suspended without pay for nearly half of the season, according to TMZ. Multiple sources confirmed the suspension, including reports from Toronto Sun and Bleacher Report.

The Falcons have not commented on the suspension. The incident has sparked discussions about player conduct and league enforcement. The suspension is the latest in a series of disciplinary actions by the NFL.

The case highlights ongoing concerns about domestic violence in sports. The NFL has taken steps to address such issues, but the incident remains a point of controversy. The full impact of the suspension on Pearce’s career remains to be seen.