Philadelphia Eagles' iconic wide receiver DeSean Jackson has hung up his cleats after a storied 15-year career in the NFL. In an emotional farewell at the Eagles’ NovaCare Complex, Jackson not only reflected on his illustrious tenure but also took the time to praise quarterback Jalen Hurts for his burgeoning talent and leadership.
Known for his game-breaking speed and ability to stretch defenses, Jackson leaves behind a legacy as one of the most formidable deep threats the league has ever seen. His endorsement of Hurts was heartfelt and pointed, "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."
Jackson's decision to retire as an Eagle was symbolized by signing a one-day contract with the franchise that selected him 49th overall in the 2008 draft. During his initial six-season run with the Eagles, Jackson earned three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro designation. His statistical achievements with the team are remarkable; he ranks third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35). Additionally, his prowess as a punt returner is etched in the Eagles' record books—he is second in punt returns (132), third in punt return yards (1,296), and tied with Darren Sproles for the most punt return touchdowns with four.
The Eagles will honor Jackson as an honorary captain at their upcoming home game at Lincoln Financial Field, celebrating his contributions to the franchise.
A Special Connection with Hurts
The bond between Jackson and Hurts was cemented during Jackson’s second stint with the Eagles from 2019-2020. Their connection shone brightly when Hurts connected with Jackson for an 81-yard touchdown during a Week 16 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys. This standout moment came amidst a tumultuous 2020 season, which ultimately led to the end of Doug Pederson's coaching tenure in Philadelphia and signaled the rise of Hurts as a starter over the then incumbent Carson Wentz.
"I think I was lobbying for Jalen Hurts back when we had Carson Wentz starting at that time," Jackson disclosed. He recalled the skepticism surrounding the decision to draft Hurts in the second round, especially when the team had invested heavily in Wentz with a franchise tag and a $128 million extension.
Hurts demonstrated initiative and commitment by opting to train with Jackson in Florida during the 2020 offseason. Jackson noted, "It was actually, he made it convenient because I trained in Tampa and he came out there and trained with me. We trained for like a whole week. We were able to build. I had just seen that his mentality was different then." Jackson lauded Hurts' maturity, comparing his mindset to that of "an uncle or an old father."
Despite the significant financial commitment to Wentz, his performance waned towards the end of the 2020 season, leading to his benching and subsequent trade to the Indianapolis Colts. This shift opened the door for Hurts to step into the spotlight as the Eagles' new leader under center.
Fast forward to the present day, and Hurts has solidified his status as one of the NFL's elite quarterbacks. He boasts an impressive record, winning 27 of his last 29 starts, including a current streak of 16 victories in 17 games. Notably, he has achieved 14 straight wins against teams holding winning records, a feat that stands as the longest since such statistics have been tracked since 1950.
Jackson's retirement marks the end of an era for the Eagles, but his confidence in Hurts suggests that the franchise's future remains bright. As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, his legacy endures—not only through his own remarkable achievements but also through the potential he sees in Hurts to carry the torch for the Eagles in the years to come.