Philadelphia Eagles' iconic wide receiver DeSean Jackson announced his retirement on Friday, bringing an illustrious 15-year NFL career to a close. The announcement came from the Eagles’ NovaCare Complex training facility, where Jackson took a moment to express his confidence in quarterback Jalen Hurts and his future with the team.
Jackson, renowned for being one of the most formidable deep threats in the history of the league, offered high praise for Hurts, highlighting his talent and mindset. Reflecting on their time together, Jackson shared, “I definitely saw Jalen Hurts before what the world sees now. 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.”
Choosing to end his career where it began, Jackson signed a ceremonial one-day contract to retire as an Eagle—the team that drafted him 49th overall in 2008. During his initial six seasons with Philadelphia, he earned three Pro Bowl selections and one All-Pro honor.
In his 95 games with the Eagles, Jackson accrued impressive statistics, ranking third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35). His prowess was not limited to receiving; as a punt returner, he ranks second in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296) for the franchise. Moreover, Jackson is tied with Darren Sproles for the most punt return touchdowns in team history, each boasting four.
The Eagles will honor the retired wide receiver as an honorary captain at Sunday's game at Lincoln Financial Field, celebrating his contributions to the team.
A Special Connection with Hurts
DeSean Jackson's rapport with Jalen Hurts developed during his second tenure with the Eagles in the 2019-2020 season. A memorable 81-yard touchdown reception from Hurts in Week 16 against the Dallas Cowboys punctuated Jackson's successful run with the franchise.
This highlight came amidst the tumultuous 2020 season under coach Doug Pederson, which also marked Hurts' emergence as a reliable backup to then-starter Carson Wentz. Jackson recalled advocating for Hurts even when Wentz was the starter, saying, “I think I was lobbying for Jalen Hurts back when we had Carson Wentz starting at that time. Everybody was like, ‘Why would we pick Jalen Hurts in the second round?’”
Hurts showed initiative by opting to train with Jackson in Florida during the 2020 offseason. Jackson noted the surprise of his team when Hurts, instead of Wentz, joined him for training. “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 admired Hurts' mature approach, likening his mindset to that of "an uncle or an old father." He observed Hurts' calm and composed manner in every game, which convinced him of Hurts' unique qualities.
At the time, Carson Wentz's substantial franchise tag and $128 million extension seemed to overshadow Hurts' prospects. However, Wentz's performance faltered towards the end of the 2020 season, leading to his benching. The resulting strain facilitated Wentz's eventual trade to the Indianapolis Colts, thereby paving the way for Hurts' ascension.
Looking at the present day, Jalen Hurts has established himself as a standout player in the NFL. He boasts an impressive record, having led his team to victory in 27 of his last 29 starts, including a stretch of 16 wins out of 17 games. Remarkably, he has achieved a streak of 14 consecutive victories over teams with winning records—a feat unmatched since at least 1950.
Jackson's endorsement of Hurts is not just a passing remark from a former teammate; it's a testament to the potential he saw in the young quarterback early on. As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, he leaves behind a legacy of exceptional play and an unwavering belief in the Eagles' new leader under center. With Hurts at the helm, the Eagles' future indeed looks bright, bolstered by the same confidence that a veteran like Jackson holds in the young quarterback's abilities.