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In a powerful display of cross-sport support, WNBA star Rickea Jackson took to social media to show her excitement and pride after the Atlanta Falcons traded up to draft James Pearce Jr. in the 2025 NFL Draft. The moment lit up both the football and basketball communities, highlighting a shared bond of athletic excellence and Southern sports pride.
🏈 Falcons Trade Up for Defensive Standout James Pearce Jr.
The Atlanta Falcons made headlines by trading up in the first round to select James Pearce Jr., a highly touted defensive end from the University of Tennessee. Known for his elite speed, agility, and quarterback pressure, Pearce was one of the top pass-rushing prospects in this year’s draft class.
The Falcons, who have long struggled with their defensive line, made a bold and strategic move to secure Pearce Jr. — showing a clear intent to build a younger, more dynamic defense around him.
🏀 Rickea Jackson’s Reaction: Southern Support in Full Force
As soon as the pick was announced, Rickea Jackson, the rising WNBA forward and Tennessee alum, took to X (formerly Twitter) to express her support for Pearce. Jackson, who also played her final college season with the Tennessee Lady Vols, shared a heartfelt message congratulating her fellow Volunteer:
“Let’s goooo!! James Pearce Jr. to the ATL! So proud 🔥🍊 #VolsForever #DirtyBirds”
Her post quickly gained traction, with fans and athletes alike celebrating the moment — a reminder of the deep ties between Tennessee’s sports programs and the athletes they develop.
🎯 Why This Matters: Tennessee Stars Backing Each Other
Both Rickea Jackson and James Pearce Jr. have made names for themselves through grit, hard work, and standout performances at Tennessee. Jackson, who was recently drafted into the WNBA, has been vocal about supporting fellow athletes from her alma mater, and her backing of Pearce is yet another example of the Vols community standing strong.
The Atlanta Falcons’ fan base also embraced the moment, applauding the pick and loving the visible support from a respected professional athlete like Rickea.
🔍 What James Pearce Jr. Brings to Atlanta
The addition of Pearce to Atlanta’s roster is expected to transform their pass rush. With his SEC experience, raw athleticism, and ability to disrupt offenses, Pearce could be a cornerstone of the Falcons’ defensive rebuild. Pairing him with veteran leadership and a young core, the Falcons seem poised to make a serious push in the NFC South.
Pearce recorded double-digit sacks in his final college season and was widely seen as one of the most explosive edge rushers available in the draft.
✅ Conclusion: Southern Pride, Shared Success
Rickea Jackson’s public support for James Pearce Jr. wasn’t just a friendly gesture — it was a powerful reminder of the bonds forged through collegiate athletics and mutual respect. As Pearce prepares for his NFL debut in Atlanta and Jackson continues to rise in the WNBA, both athletes are proving that Tennessee produces stars — on and off the field.
Their mutual success and support inspire a new generation of athletes, showing that the Volunteer spirit lives on, no matter the sport.
