Philadelphia Eagles' iconic wide receiver DeSean Jackson has hung up his cleats after a stellar 15-year career in the National Football League. Jackson made his retirement official at the Eagles' NovaCare Complex, where he also took the opportunity to praise quarterback Jalen Hurts for his impressive skills and mindset.
Recognized as one of the most formidable deep threats in the history of the league, Jackson expressed confidence in Hurts, highlighting several instances when the young quarterback had made an impression on him. "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."
In a symbolic gesture marking the end of his professional journey, Jackson signed a ceremonial one-day contract with the Eagles—the team that originally drafted him 49th overall in 2008. During his first tenure with the Eagles, which spanned six seasons, Jackson earned three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro designation.
His statistics with the Eagles are nothing short of impressive: Jackson is third in franchise history with 6,512 receiving yards, sixth with 379 receptions, and ninth with 35 receiving touchdowns over 95 games. As a testament to his versatility, he also excelled as a punt returner, holding second place in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296) for the team. Notably, he shares the top spot for punt return touchdowns with former running back and return specialist Darren Sproles, each tallying four.
The Eagles will honor Jackson's contribution to the team by naming him an honorary captain for Sunday's game at Lincoln Financial Field.
A Special Connection with Hurts
Jackson and Hurts established a rapport during Jackson's second stint with the Eagles from 2019 to 2020. Jackson's final catch—a remarkable 81-yard touchdown pass from Hurts in a Week 16 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys—served as a fitting capstone to his illustrious career.
This pivotal moment came during a tumultuous 2020 season, which turned out to be Doug Pederson's last as head coach in Philadelphia. At the same time, it marked the emergence of Hurts, who was then serving as a backup to the struggling Carson Wentz.
"I think I was lobbying for Jalen Hurts back when we had Carson Wentz starting at that time," recalled Jackson. "Everybody was like, 'Why would we pick Jalen Hurts in the second round?'"
Hurts showed initiative by choosing to train with Jackson in Florida during the 2020 offseason. Jackson shared how questions arose about why Hurts was training with him instead of Wentz. "It was actually, he made it convenient because I trained in Tampa and he came out there and trained with me," said Jackson. "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 having a mature mindset, comparing it to that of "an uncle or an old father." He noted that Hurts approached every game with a level-headed persona, leading Jackson to sense something unique about him.
Despite the challenges posed by Wentz's hefty franchise tag and $128 million extension, Wentz's performance faltered by the end of the 2020 season, resulting in his benching. This turn of events strained their relationship and ultimately led to Wentz forcing a move to the Indianapolis Colts, paving the way for Hurts to step into the spotlight.
As of 2023, Hurts has solidified his status as a standout player in the NFL. His record is exceptional, with victories in 27 of his past 29 starts, including triumphs in 16 out of the last 17 games. Remarkably, he boasts a streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams with winning records—the longest such streak since at least 1950.
Jackson's endorsement of Hurts underscores the potential that the young quarterback possesses. With the backing of a legend and his own track record of success, Hurts seems poised to carry on the legacy of excellence for the Eagles, much like Jackson did throughout his distinguished career.