DeSean Jackson Retires, Endorses Jalen Hurts as Eagles' Future
Philadelphia Eagles' esteemed wide receiver DeSean Jackson has hung up his cleats after a storied 15-year career in the NFL. In a heartfelt retirement announcement at the Eagles' NovaCare Complex, Jackson took the opportunity to sing praises for quarterback Jalen Hurts, asserting confidence in his future with the franchise.
Jackson, who has left an indelible mark on the league as one of its most formidable deep threats, expressed his unwavering belief in Hurts' abilities and potential. He recalled instances when the young quarterback's talent was evident to him, long before it caught the public eye. "I definitely saw Jalen Hurts before what the world sees now," Jackson said. "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 prolific receiver chose to end his career where it began, signing a ceremonial one-day contract to retire as a member of the Eagles—the team that selected him 49th overall in the 2008 NFL Draft. During his initial six-year tenure with the Eagles, Jackson earned three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro designation.
His statistics with the team are impressive: Jackson is third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35) across 95 games. As a punt returner, he ranks second in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296). Moreover, Jackson shares the record for the most punt return touchdowns in Eagles history—four—with former running back and return specialist Darren Sproles.
To honor his contributions, Jackson will be recognized as an honorary captain at the upcoming Eagles game at Lincoln Financial Field.
A Special Connection with Hurts
Jackson's rapport with Hurts developed during his second stint with the Eagles from 2019 to 2020. His final catch—a remarkable 81-yard touchdown from Hurts during a Week 16 clash against the Dallas Cowboys—served as a fitting capstone to his illustrious Eagles career.
That memorable play came amidst the tumultuous 2020 season under coach Doug Pederson's last year with the team. It also marked Hurts' emergence as a viable starter, stepping in for the underperforming Carson Wentz.
Jackson recalled advocating for Hurts while Wentz was still the starting quarterback. "I think I was lobbying for Jalen Hurts back when we had Carson Wentz starting at that time," he reflected. "Everybody was like, 'Why would we pick Jalen Hurts in the second round?'"
Hurts, demonstrating initiative and dedication, joined Jackson for training sessions in Florida. "It was actually, he made it convenient because I trained in Tampa and he came out there and trained with me," Jackson recounted. "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 native, as possessing a mature mindset reminiscent of "an uncle or an old father." He admired Hurts' composure and approach to the game, which led him to believe that Hurts was destined for greatness.
A significant obstacle to Hurts' ascension was the franchise tag and the $128 million extension signed by Wentz. However, Wentz's struggles towards the end of the 2020 season, which ultimately led to his benching, strained their relationship and precipitated his move to the Indianapolis Colts. This shift opened the door for Hurts to step into the limelight.
Now, as of 2023, Hurts stands as a luminary figure in the NFL. With a remarkable record of securing victories in 27 of his past 29 starts—including 16 of the last 17—and a historic streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams with winning records, the longest since at least 1950, Hurts has undoubtedly lived up to Jackson's early endorsements.
As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, he leaves behind a legacy of explosive plays and a vote of confidence in the promising future of Jalen Hurts, a testament to his impact both on and off the field.
