After an illustrious 15-year tenure in the National Football League, DeSean Jackson, the Philadelphia Eagles’ legendary wide receiver, has decided to hang up his cleats. The retirement announcement came from the NovaCare Complex, the Eagles' training facility, where Jackson took a moment to not only reflect on his own career but also to shine a spotlight on quarterback Jalen Hurts.
Known for his electrifying speed and ability to stretch the field, Jackson has been a formidable deep threat throughout his career. His endorsement of Hurts is noteworthy as he praised the young quarterback's talent and mindset. Jackson recalled instances when Hurts, who is just 25 years old, showcased his potential. “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.”
Jackson chose to retire as a member of the team that selected him in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft. During his initial six seasons with the Eagles, he earned three Pro Bowl selections and one All-Pro honor. In his 95 games with the franchise, Jackson ranks third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35). His prowess was not limited to receiving; as a punt returner, he holds the second position in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296). Notably, he is tied with Darren Sproles for the franchise lead in punt return touchdowns, each having four to their name.
To commemorate his retirement, Jackson will be honored as an honorary captain at Sunday’s game at Lincoln Financial Field.
A Special Connection with Hurts
The bond between Jackson and Hurts was forged during Jackson's second stint with the Eagles in 2019-2020. One of the highlights of this partnership was Jackson's final catch for the Eagles—an 81-yard touchdown pass from Hurts during a Week 16 clash against the Dallas Cowboys. This memorable play came amid a tumultuous 2020 season under then-coach Doug Pederson and marked Hurts' emergence as a viable starter over the incumbent Carson Wentz.
Reflecting on the dynamics within the team at the time, Jackson shared insights into the early support he had for Hurts. “I think I was lobbying for Jalen Hurts back when we had Carson Wentz starting at that time,” he revealed. The decision to draft Hurts in the second round raised eyebrows, especially when he began training with Jackson instead of Wentz during the 2020 offseason. Jackson explained, “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 native, as having a mature mindset, likening it to "an uncle or an old father." This poise and composure led Jackson to believe in Hurts' unique qualities early on.
At the time, Wentz's future with the Eagles seemed secure after signing a franchise tag and $128 million extension. However, by the end of the 2020 season, Wentz's performance had declined significantly, leading to his benching and eventual trade to the Indianapolis Colts. This shift paved the way for Hurts to take the reins of the team.
As of 2023, Hurts has established himself as a standout player in the league. His record speaks volumes, with victories in 27 of his past 29 starts. This includes a remarkable run of 16 wins in 17 games and an unprecedented streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams holding winning records—a feat not matched since at least 1950.
In conclusion, while Jackson’s storied career has reached its sunset, the legacy he leaves behind is not just in the record books but also in the promising future of Jalen Hurts. As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, his confidence in Hurts suggests that the torch has indeed been passed, and the Eagles may soar high on the wings of their young quarterback for seasons to come.