After a storied 15-year tenure in the NFL, Philadelphia Eagles' iconic wide receiver DeSean Jackson announced his retirement on Friday. The announcement took place at the Eagles’ NovaCare Complex, where Jackson not only reminisced about his illustrious career but also took the opportunity to sing praises for his quarterback, Jalen Hurts.
Jackson, widely recognized as one of the most formidable deep threats the league has ever seen, affirmed his confidence in Hurts. He highlighted moments that had left an indelible impression on him and expressed optimism about Hurts' future. “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.”
In a symbolic gesture underscoring his connection with the Eagles, Jackson signed a ceremonial one-day contract to retire with 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.
With 95 games under his belt as an Eagle, Jackson ranks third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35) for the franchise. His prowess was not limited to receiving; as a punt returner, he holds the second position in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296). Notably, he is tied with former running back and return specialist Darren Sproles for the most punt return touchdowns in team history, each scoring four.
The Eagles will honor Jackson's contributions by having him serve as an honorary captain during Sunday's game at Lincoln Financial Field.
A Special Connection with Hurts
Jackson's bond with Hurts was forged during his second tenure with the Eagles from 2019-2020. A memorable 81-yard touchdown reception from Hurts against the Dallas Cowboys in Week 16 epitomized Jackson's enduring impact on the field. This highlight came amidst a tumultuous 2020 season, which ultimately marked the end of Doug Pederson's tenure as head coach in Philadelphia and served as a turning point for Hurts, who was then the backup to Carson Wentz.
Jackson recalled advocating for Hurts even when Wentz was the starter. “I think I was lobbying for Jalen Hurts back when we had Carson Wentz starting at that time,” he said. The decision to draft Hurts in the second round raised eyebrows, but Jackson saw potential early on.
Hurts' initiative to train with Jackson in Florida during the 2020 offseason spoke volumes about his commitment. Despite the team's curiosity about why Hurts was training with Jackson instead of Wentz, it was clear that Hurts was making strides. “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 as possessing a mature mindset, likening it to “an uncle or an old father.” This composure and demeanor convinced Jackson of Hurts' unique qualities.
While Wentz's $128 million extension initially overshadowed Hurts' role, Wentz's performance decline towards the end of the 2020 season led to his benching. This shift strained their relationship and catalyzed Wentz's transfer to the Indianapolis Colts, paving the way for Hurts to step into the limelight.
Fast forward to 2023, and Hurts has emerged as a leading figure in the NFL. His track record is impressive: securing victories in 27 of his past 29 starts, including 16 out of the last 17. Remarkably, he boasts a streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams with winning records, the longest since such records began in 1950.
Jackson's endorsement of Hurts is more than mere praise; it is a testament to the young quarterback's evolution and the promise of greatness that lies ahead. As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a belief in the continued ascendancy of his successor, Jalen Hurts.