James Pearce Jr. has reached an agreement to enter a pretrial intervention program, a move that allows the Atlanta Falcons defender to avoid a trial regarding multiple felony charges. Yale Sanford, the attorney representing the 22-year-old, confirmed the development Thursday following a hearing in Florida.

The charges against the NFL player include aggravated battery with a deadly weapon, fleeing police, and resisting arrest. He also faces a misdemeanor stalking charge. As part of the six-month program, which is managed by an independent third party, Pearce is required to participate in therapy and must have no contact with his former girlfriend, Chicago Sky player Rickea Jackson.

While Pearce did not appear in person for the hearing, he joined the proceedings via videoconference. He is due back in Miami-Dade County court on May 7 to complete the remaining details of the agreement. Under Florida law, victims and involved law enforcement officers are typically consulted before such deals are officially finalized.

The case stems from a Feb. 7 incident in Doral, Florida. According to police reports, Pearce allegedly used his Lamborghini to ram a vehicle driven by Jackson. Authorities stated that Pearce followed Jackson as she attempted to drive to a local police station for safety. When officers arrived and attempted to intervene, Pearce allegedly fled in his car, eventually crashing at a nearby intersection. Police accounts indicate he then attempted to flee on foot before being apprehended and resisting arrest.

Jackson, who was recently traded to the Sky from the Los Angeles Sparks, filed for a protective order shortly after the incident. In court documents, she expressed significant fear for her safety, stating she believed Pearce intended to harm her. A permanent injunction hearing regarding that protective order is scheduled for May 21. Currently, Pearce is legally barred from contacting Jackson or coming within 500 feet of her residence or workplace.

The Falcons declined to comment on the matter Thursday, citing the ongoing legal process. A spokesperson for the NFL stated the league is monitoring the situation, as it remains under review regarding the personal conduct policy.

Pearce was selected with the No. 26 overall pick in the 2025 NFL Draft. During his first season in Atlanta, he recorded 10.5 sacks, a franchise record for a rookie. He is now entering his second season with the team.