Philadelphia Eagles' iconic wide receiver DeSean Jackson has decided to hang up his cleats, concluding a storied 15-year career in the National Football League. In a heartfelt announcement at the Eagles' NovaCare Complex, Jackson not only reflected on his own journey but also took the opportunity to shine a spotlight on quarterback Jalen Hurts, expressing confidence in the young signal-caller's future.
Known for his electrifying speed and ability to stretch the field, Jackson leaves behind a legacy as one of the NFL's premier deep threats. He was effusive in his praise for Hurts, noting that he had witnessed the quarterback's potential long before it became apparent to the public eye. "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."
Choosing to retire with the team that selected him 49th overall in the 2008 draft, Jackson signed a ceremonial one-day contract to end his career as an Eagle. During his two stints with the franchise, he amassed impressive statistics, ranking third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35) over 95 games. As a punt returner, he recorded the second-most returns (132) and third-most return yards (1,296) in team history, while also sharing the record for most punt return touchdowns (four) with Darren Sproles.
In recognition of his impact, Jackson will be honored as an honorary captain at Sunday's game at Lincoln Financial Field.
A Special Bond with Hurts
The connection between Jackson and Hurts was forged during the wide receiver's second tenure with the Eagles from 2019-2020. One of the defining moments of this partnership came in Week 16 against the Dallas Cowboys when Jackson caught an 81-yard touchdown pass from Hurts. This play not only highlighted Jackson's enduring talent but also showcased Hurts' emerging prowess as a dynamic quarterback.
This highlight occurred during a tumultuous 2020 season under coach Doug Pederson, which would ultimately be his last with the Eagles. At the time, Hurts was serving as a backup to Carson Wentz, whose performance was in decline despite a substantial $128 million contract extension. Jackson recalled advocating for Hurts even then, facing questions about why the Eagles had drafted him in the second round and why he, rather than Wentz, was training with Jackson in Florida.
"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 went on to describe Hurts' mature mindset, likening it to that of "an uncle or an old father," and emphasized the quarterback's calm approach to the game.
Wentz's struggles eventually led to him being benched and subsequently traded to the Indianapolis Colts, paving the way for Hurts to step into the limelight. Since then, Hurts has risen to prominence within the league, amassing an enviable record of victories. Over his past 29 starts, he has led the team to victory 27 times, including winning 16 of the last 17 games. Notably, he has achieved a remarkable streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams holding winning records—a feat unmatched since at least 1950.
Jackson's endorsement of Hurts is more than mere parting words; it's a testament to the quarterback's resilience and growth. As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, his legacy with the Eagles is firmly entrenched, and he leaves behind a vote of confidence for Hurts to continue building his own.
Hurts' ascension is a bright spot for the Eagles, a narrative of triumph and potential that echoes through the halls of the NovaCare Complex, much like the stories of the many legends who have donned the midnight green before him. As Jackson transitions into retirement, the torch has been passed, and Hurts seems more than ready to carry it forward.