Philadelphia's beloved wide receiver, DeSean Jackson, has hung up his cleats after an illustrious 15-year career in the National Football League. The retirement announcement came from the NovaCare Complex, the Eagles' training facility, where Jackson took a moment to shine a spotlight on quarterback Jalen Hurts, endorsing his talent and leadership abilities.
Jackson, who is celebrated as one of the most formidable deep threats the league has ever seen, did not hold back in his praise for Hurts. "I definitely saw Jalen Hurts before what the world sees now," Jackson remarked. He expressed confidence in Hurts' future, predicting longevity and success for him in Philadelphia. "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 reflecting his connection to the team that drafted him 49th overall in 2008, Jackson signed a one-day contract to retire as an Eagle. During his initial six seasons with the Eagles, Jackson earned three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro designation, leaving a lasting legacy.
With the franchise, he ranks third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35). As a punt returner, he impressively holds second place in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296). Additionally, he shares the record for most punt return touchdowns with former running back and return specialist Darren Sproles, both scoring four.
The Eagles will honor Jackson as an honorary captain at Sunday's game at Lincoln Financial Field, celebrating his remarkable career with the team.
A Special Connection with Hurts
The bond between Jackson and Hurts was forged during Jackson's second stint with the Eagles from 2019-2020. His final reception—a spectacular 81-yard touchdown—came from Hurts in a Week 16 game against the Dallas Cowboys. This moment highlighted Jackson's career and marked the beginning of Hurts' rise.
The 2020 season was fraught with challenges, including what would be Doug Pederson's last year as head coach in Philadelphia. It was also a pivotal time for Hurts, who was then the backup to Carson Wentz. Jackson recalls advocating for Hurts even then, amidst doubts about his selection in the second round of the draft. "Everybody was like, ‘Why would we pick Jalen Hurts in the second round?’" Jackson said.
Hurts made a deliberate choice to train with Jackson in Florida during the 2020 offseason, a decision that raised eyebrows within the organization given Wentz was the starter. Jackson shared how Hurts sought him out in Tampa, "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' mindset as mature beyond his years, likening it to "an uncle or an old father."
Despite the franchise tag and Wentz's $128 million extension being potential roadblocks to Hurts' ascension, Wentz's performance took a nosedive by the end of the 2020 season, leading to his benching. This shift strained their relationship and ultimately led to Wentz's trade to the Indianapolis Colts, paving the way for Hurts to step into the limelight.
Now, as we look at the 2023 season, Hurts has emerged as a standout player in the NFL. He boasts an impressive record, securing victories in 27 of his past 29 starts, which includes winning 16 of the last 17 games. Notably, he has achieved a remarkable streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams with winning records, a feat unmatched since at least 1950.
Jackson's endorsement of Hurts seems prophetic, as the young quarterback has indeed become a special presence in Philadelphia, much like Jackson predicted. As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, his legacy endures, not only through his own achievements but also through the bright future he foresees for Hurts and the Eagles.