Philadelphia Eagles' storied wide receiver DeSean Jackson has hung up his cleats after a remarkable 15-year journey in the NFL. The announcement came on Friday at the Eagles' training facility, NovaCare Complex, where Jackson took the opportunity to heap praise on quarterback Jalen Hurts, expressing confidence in his future with the franchise.
Jackson, who is widely recognized as one of the NFL's most formidable deep threats, extended his support to Hurts, lauding his talent and mindset. He reflected on several instances when the young quarterback had made an impression on him. "I definitely saw Jalen Hurts before what the world sees now," Jackson remarked. "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 veteran receiver chose to conclude his career where it all began, signing a ceremonial one-day contract to retire as an Eagle—the team that selected him 49th overall in the 2008 draft. During his initial six seasons with the Eagles, Jackson earned three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro designation, firmly establishing his legacy.
His statistics with the Eagles are nothing short of impressive. In 95 games, Jackson ranks third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35). As a punt returner, he stands second in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296). Notably, he shares the franchise record for punt return touchdowns with former teammate Darren Sproles, each tallying four.
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
DeSean Jackson's bond with Jalen Hurts was forged during his second stint with the Eagles from 2019-2020. His last catch for the team—an 81-yard touchdown from Hurts during a Week 16 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys—served as a fitting capstone to his tenure. This highlight came amid the tumultuous 2020 season under then-head coach Doug Pederson, which would also mark Hurts' emergence as a starter over the incumbent Carson Wentz.
"I think I was lobbying for Jalen Hurts back when we had Carson Wentz starting at that time," Jackson disclosed. "Everybody was like, 'Why would we pick Jalen Hurts in the second round?'"
Hurts showed initiative by opting to train with Jackson in Florida. Reflecting on the 2020 offseason, Jackson shared that there were questions about why Hurts was working out with him instead of Wentz. "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, an Alabama product, as possessing a maturity beyond his years, likening his mindset to "an uncle or an old father." It was Hurts' calm approach to the game that convinced Jackson of his unique qualities. "There's something special about him," he affirmed.
Despite the challenges posed by Wentz's hefty franchise tag and $128 million extension, Wentz's performance faltered by the end of the 2020 season, resulting in his benching. This situation strained their relationship, ultimately leading to Wentz's exit to the Indianapolis Colts and paving the way for Hurts to step into the limelight.
Fast forward to 2023, and Hurts has become a standout figure in the NFL. He boasts a record of securing victories in 27 of his past 29 starts, including an outstanding run of 16 wins in 17 games. Most impressively, he has led his team to 14 consecutive victories over teams with winning records—a feat that hasn't been matched since at least 1950.
Jackson's endorsement of Hurts isn't just a passing comment from a former teammate; it's a testament to the potential he saw in Hurts early on. As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a belief in the bright future of the Eagles with Hurts at the helm.