Philadelphia Eagles' storied wide receiver DeSean Jackson has hung up his cleats after a dazzling 15-year tenure in the NFL, punctuating an illustrious career with heartfelt praise for quarterback Jalen Hurts during his retirement announcement at the NovaCare Complex. Jackson's legacy is not only etched in the record books but also in the high regard he holds for Hurts, whose potential he was quick to acknowledge.
Known as one of the most formidable deep threats the league has seen, Jackson took a moment to extend his endorsement to Hurts, lauding the young quarterback's abilities 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."
In a symbolic gesture cementing his connection to the franchise that selected him 49th overall in the 2008 draft, Jackson signed a one-day contract to retire as an Eagle. His initial six-season stint with the team was marked by three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro honor, leaving an indelible mark on the franchise's history.
With 95 games under his belt as an Eagle, Jackson boasts a third-place ranking in receiving yards (6,512), a sixth-place in receptions (379), and a ninth-place in receiving touchdowns (35). His prowess wasn't limited to receiving; as a punt returner, he secured the second spot in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296). Moreover, Jackson shares the title of all-time leader in punt return touchdowns with the renowned Darren Sproles, each tallying four.
The Eagles will honor Jackson's contributions to the team by naming him an honorary captain at Sunday's game at Lincoln Financial Field, celebrating his remarkable journey with the franchise.
A Special Connection with Hurts
It was during his second tenure with the Eagles from 2019-2020 that Jackson developed a notable rapport with Hurts. The culmination of this partnership was an electrifying 81-yard touchdown pass from Hurts in a Week 16 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys, highlighting Jackson's final reception with the team.
This standout play unfolded amid the tumultuous 2020 season, which would ultimately be Doug Pederson's last as the Eagles' head coach. It was also a pivotal moment for Hurts, who had been serving as a cost-effective backup to the struggling Carson Wentz.
Jackson reminisced about advocating for Hurts even when Wentz was the starter, recalling, "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 demonstrated initiative and commitment by choosing to train with Jackson in Florida. Jackson recalled questions from the team about why Hurts was training with him instead of Wentz, saying, "It was actually, he made it convenient because I trained in Tampa and he came out there and trained with me. 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 product, as possessing a maturity beyond his years, likening his mindset to "an uncle or an old father." He admired Hurts' composure and approach to the game, stating, "there’s something special about him."
While Hurts’ path to the starting role was initially blocked by Wentz's significant contract extension, the latter's performance decline by the end of the 2020 season led to a benching. This turn of events strained their relationship and eventually prompted Wentz to facilitate a move to the Indianapolis Colts, paving the way for Hurts to step into the spotlight.
Fast-forward to the present day, and Hurts stands as a luminary in the NFL landscape. His track record is impressive, boasting victories in 27 of his last 29 starts, including triumphs in 16 of the past 17 games. Notably, Hurts has orchestrated a remarkable streak of 14 consecutive wins over teams with winning records, a feat unmatched since at least 1950.
As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, his legacy is not only defined by his own achievements but also by his early recognition of talent in others. His foresight regarding Hurts' capabilities and the subsequent rise of the young quarterback are testaments to Jackson's insight and experience. As the Eagles continue their journey, they do so carrying the spirit of one of their greats, while another may just be beginning to