After a storied 15-year career in the National Football League, Philadelphia Eagles' iconic wide receiver DeSean Jackson has decided to hang up his cleats. The announcement came at the NovaCare Complex, the Eagles' training facility, where Jackson took the opportunity not only to bid farewell to the sport but also to sing praises of his quarterback, Jalen Hurts.
Jackson, widely recognized as one of the NFL's most formidable deep threats, expressed confidence in Hurts' ability and mindset. Reflecting on their time together, he noted several instances when the young quarterback's talent was evident. "I definitely saw Jalen Hurts before what the world sees now," Jackson stated. "I feel like he’s just starting. I feel like he’s going to be here for a long time. He’s going to have some special moments in Philadelphia."
The retirement is marked by a ceremonial gesture, with Jackson signing a one-day contract to retire as a member of the Eagles, the team that drafted him 49th overall in 2008. In his first tenure with the Eagles, which spanned six seasons, Jackson earned three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro honor.
Throughout 95 games with the Eagles, Jackson secured his place in the franchise's history books. He ranks third in receiving yards with 6,512, sixth in receptions with 379, and ninth in receiving touchdowns with 35. His prowess was not limited to receiving; as a punt returner, Jackson stands second in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296). Moreover, he shares the distinction of being the team's all-time leader in punt return touchdowns, with four, alongside former running back and return specialist Darren Sproles.
In recognition of his contributions, Jackson will be honored as an honorary captain at Sunday's game at Lincoln Financial Field.
A Special Connection with Hurts
Jackson's bond with Hurts was forged during the latter's rookie season, coinciding with Jackson's second stint with the Eagles in 2019-2020. One of the highlights of this partnership was Jackson's final catch for the franchise—an 81-yard touchdown pass from Hurts during a Week 16 clash against the Dallas Cowboys. This remarkable play came amidst a tumultuous 2020 season, which was also the last for Doug Pederson as head coach in Philadelphia and marked the beginning of Hurts' ascent as a starter over the faltering Carson Wentz.
"I think I was lobbying for Jalen Hurts back when we had Carson Wentz starting at that time," Jackson recalled. "Everybody was like, ‘Why would we pick Jalen Hurts in the second round?’" The choice became clearer when Hurts, showing initiative, trained with Jackson in Florida. Jackson shared how his teammates questioned why Hurts was working out with him instead of Wentz, highlighting the effort Hurts put into developing their chemistry.
"It was actually, he made it convenient because I trained in Tampa and he came out there and trained with me," Jackson explained. "We trained for like a whole week. We were able to build. I had just seen that his mentality was different then." Jackson described Hurts' maturity, likening his mindset to that of "an uncle or an old father," and praised his composure, which convinced him of Hurts' unique qualities.
Despite the franchise tag and Wentz's $128 million extension posing a challenge to Hurts' role, Wentz's performance declined by the end of the 2020 season, resulting in him being benched. This shift strained their relationship, ultimately leading Wentz to orchestrate a move to the Indianapolis Colts, thereby paving the way for Hurts to take the reins.
Fast-forward to 2023, and Hurts has emerged as one of the NFL's standout quarterbacks. He boasts an impressive record, having won 27 of his past 29 starts, including victories in 16 of the last 17 games. Notably, he has led the team to an extraordinary streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams holding winning records—a feat that hasn't been matched since at least 1950.
Hurts' trajectory seems to validate Jackson's early endorsement and suggests that the Eagles have indeed found a special talent capable of leading them into a bright future. As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and an eye for talent that could very well shape the Eagles for years to come.