In a surprising turn of events at the 2025 NFL Draft, Los Angeles Sparks star Rickea Jackson was spotted alongside Tennessee Volunteers edge rusher James Pearce, making headlines and sparking relationship rumors. The draft took place on Thursday, April 24, 2025, where Pearce was selected by the Atlanta Falcons as the No. 26 overall pick. This moment marked a significant milestone for Pearce, who celebrated his achievement with family and friends while Jackson, wearing a stunning black dress, sat right beside him.
The cameras captured the intimate moment as Pearce learned of his selection, with Jackson affectionately rubbing his leg, further fueling speculation about their relationship. The two athletes, both hailing from the University of Tennessee, have been linked romantically since last year, but neither had publicly confirmed the relationship until now.
Jackson, 24, who was the No. 4 overall pick in the 2024 WNBA Draft, took to social media to respond to the flurry of reactions from fans who were surprised to see her at the NFL event. In a lighthearted tweet, she wrote, "Soooo I have a doppelganger. Wow," which only added to the intrigue surrounding their relationship. Fans flooded social media with comments expressing their shock and excitement, with one user stating, "Fell to my knees when I saw Rickea Jackson sitting next to James Pearce Jr on draft night." Another chimed in, "Is that Rickea??"
Despite the apparent confirmation of their relationship through their public appearance, Jackson had previously denied being in a relationship during a TikTok Live session back in October 2024. At that time, she affirmed her single status, saying, "I'm telling y'all, Rickea is single. Listen to me, why would I lie? If I'm in a relationship, y'all would know. I'mma tell y'all. When I got a man, I would be like, 'That's my man.' When I don't have a man, I'm gonna say, 'I don't have a man.'" However, the recent events at the draft suggest that she may have been keeping her love life under wraps.
Jackson's attendance at the NFL Draft was not her first high-profile appearance this month. She was also a co-host during the 2025 WNBA Draft on April 14, where she played a significant role in interviewing the new draft picks. Additionally, she has been active in the new professional 3x3 basketball league, Unrivaled, competing in Miami from January to March 2025. Jackson's impressive athletic career includes playing for the Lady Volunteers from 2022 to 2024, where she earned WNBA All-Rookie Team honors after her first season with the Sparks.
On the other hand, James Pearce, 21, had a standout college career at Tennessee, where he was recognized as a two-time First-Team All-SEC selection. In his junior year, he recorded 38 tackles, including 13 tackles for loss and 7.5 sacks. Pearce's performance at Tennessee earned him a reputation as a formidable edge rusher, and the Falcons' decision to trade up for him in the draft underlines the team's confidence in his potential.
The Atlanta Falcons made headlines during the draft, not only for selecting Pearce but also for trading up to secure his position. Earlier in the first round, they selected Georgia Bulldogs star Jalon Walker with the No. 15 overall pick, showing their commitment to strengthening their defense. The trade with the Los Angeles Rams involved sending a second-round pick (No. 46), a seventh-round pick, and their 2026 first-rounder to acquire Pearce.
As the dust settles from the draft, fans are left buzzing about Jackson and Pearce's relationship, which has quickly become a favorite subplot of the event. The couple's interaction during the draft showcased a blend of excitement and affection, capturing the attention of sports enthusiasts and casual viewers alike. Many are now looking forward to seeing Jackson supporting Pearce from the sidelines as he embarks on his NFL career.
Jackson's unexpected appearance at the NFL Draft has not only brought her relationship with Pearce to the forefront but has also highlighted the crossover between the WNBA and NFL. Both athletes have made significant contributions to their respective sports, and their budding romance adds a layer of intrigue to their already impressive careers.
As Rickea Jackson prepares for her sophomore season with the Sparks, set to begin on May 17 against the Golden State Valkyries, fans are eager to see how her relationship with Pearce unfolds alongside her professional journey. With both athletes at the peak of their careers, their story is just beginning, and sports fans are here for it.
