If you were watching the 2025 NFL Draft, you probably saw a familiar face that had nothing to do with football. As the Atlanta Falcons traded back into the first round to snag Tennessee edge rusher James Pearce Jr. at pick 26, the cameras panned to his celebration. Right there, practically glued to his side, was Rickea Jackson.
Yeah, that Rickea Jackson. The Los Angeles Sparks bucket-getter.
Social media basically imploded. It’s not every day you see a WNBA All-Rookie selection and a first-round NFL pick hard-launching a relationship on national TV. But for fans of the Tennessee Volunteers, this was less of a shock and more of a "finally" moment. These two have been quietly building something since their days in Knoxville, and honestly, they might be the most athletic couple in professional sports right now.
The Knoxville Connection: Where it All Started
It makes sense if you think about it. Both were absolute stars at the University of Tennessee. Jackson was the focal point of the Lady Vols' offense, while Pearce was busy terrorizing SEC quarterbacks.
They weren't exactly hiding it, either. Back in September 2024, Jackson posted a "good luck" message on Instagram for Pearce before a big game, calling him "my heart." He hit her back with an "I love you" repost. Simple. Sweet. But in the chaos of a college football season and Jackson preparing for her jump to the WNBA, it flew under the radar for a lot of people.
Then came the draft. Jackson, who went No. 4 overall to the Los Angeles Sparks in 2024, was there to return the favor when Pearce got his call in 2025. When Pearce was asked later about his favorite athlete growing up, he didn't name LeBron or LT. He said Rickea Jackson. He called her game "fluid, smooth, sound, and technical."
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If that isn't a supportive partner, I don't know what is.
Rickea Jackson is Taking Over the WNBA
Let’s talk about what Rickea is doing on the court, because it’s kind of ridiculous. After a stellar rookie year where she made the 2024 WNBA All-Rookie Team, she didn't just settle. In the 2025 season, she averaged 14.7 points and 3.2 rebounds per game for the Sparks.
She has this way of making scoring look effortless. You've probably seen her mid-range jumper; it’s basically unguardable when she’s in rhythm. Even with a lower leg injury that nagged her toward the end of the 2025 season, she was putting up numbers. She had a 23-point explosion against the Seattle Storm in September that reminded everyone why she was a top-five pick.
Now, heading into 2026, she’s part of the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league, playing for Breeze BC. It’s a huge move. It keeps her sharp during the WNBA offseason and gives fans a chance to see her in a more isolated, one-on-one heavy environment. Honestly, her game is built for 3-on-3. She’s got the "bag" to cook anyone in the league.
James Pearce Jr.: The Falcons' New Secret Weapon
While Rickea is holding it down in LA, James Pearce Jr. is busy living up to that first-round hype in Atlanta. The Falcons knew what they were doing when they traded up for him. Pearce is a freak of nature—6'5", 245 lbs, and runs a 4.47 40-yard dash. That’s wide receiver speed on a guy who hits like a truck.
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His rookie season in 2025 was a certified breakout. Check these stats:
- 10.5 sacks (Leading all NFL rookies)
- 26 total tackles
- 5 pass deflections
- NFL Defensive Rookie of the Month (December 2025)
He didn't just play; he revolutionized a Falcons pass rush that had been stagnant for years. By January 2026, he was being talked about as a serious Defensive Rookie of the Year candidate. He’s got this explosive first step that makes offensive tackles look like they’re standing in cement.
Distance and the "Pro Athlete" Life
The elephant in the room is always the distance. LA to Atlanta isn't a quick drive. But these two seem to make it work. The WNBA season runs mostly through the summer, while the NFL kicks off in the fall. There’s a bit of overlap in September, but for the most part, they can support each other during their respective "off-times."
When Jackson was asked about the relationship, she kept it real, joking about how people thought she was a "doppelgänger" at the NFL draft. She’s clearly comfortable in her own skin and doesn't mind the spotlight that comes with being part of a high-profile couple.
There’s a lot of mutual respect here. You don’t see many NFL players calling a WNBA player their "favorite athlete" without a hint of irony. Pearce genuinely admires her technical skill. Jackson clearly values his drive.
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What’s Next for the Power Duo?
As we move through 2026, both are entering pivotal stages of their careers.
- Rickea Jackson is looking to lead the Sparks back into playoff contention. After a tough 2024 and 2025 for the team, she’s now a veteran leader. Her performance in the Unrivaled league this winter will be a massive indicator of how she’s recovered from that leg injury.
- James Pearce Jr. is no longer a "surprise" prospect. NFL coordinators are going to spend the entire 2026 offseason drawing up ways to stop him. He’ll be paired with Jalon Walker in Atlanta, forming what could be the best young pass-rush duo in the league.
For fans, it’s just fun to watch. We’re seeing two elite athletes from the same university reach the pinnacle of their sports at the same time, all while cheering each other on from the sidelines.
If you're looking to follow their journey more closely, keep an eye on the Unrivaled league standings this winter to see if Jackson’s Breeze BC can make a run. On the football side, the Falcons' 2026 schedule will be the true test for Pearce to see if he can avoid the "sophomore slump" and hit that 15-sack mark.
Keep an eye on social media during the WNBA's opening night in May—there’s a good chance you’ll see a certain Falcons jersey in the front row at Crypto.com Arena.
Next Steps for Fans:
- Follow the Stats: Track Rickea Jackson’s progress in the Unrivaled 3-on-3 league to see how her scoring translates to the shorter format.
- Watch the Tape: Look up James Pearce Jr.’s rookie highlight reel from the 2025 season; his sack against the Saints in January is a masterclass in hand usage.
- Stay Updated: Keep a pulse on the Los Angeles Sparks roster moves for the 2026 season, as they look to build around Jackson’s elite scoring ability.