After an illustrious 15-year career in the National Football League, Philadelphia Eagles' iconic wide receiver DeSean Jackson has decided to hang up his cleats. In a heartfelt retirement announcement at the Eagles’ NovaCare Complex, Jackson took the opportunity to highlight the potential of his quarterback, Jalen Hurts, as he reflected on his own storied journey.
Jackson, renowned for his electrifying speed and ability to stretch defenses, did not hold back in his praise for Hurts. He confidently endorsed the young quarterback's talent and mindset, recalling instances that had left a strong 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.”
Choosing to retire with the franchise that selected him 49th overall in the 2008 draft, Jackson signed a ceremonial one-day contract to end his career as an Eagle. His initial six seasons with the team were marked by remarkable achievements, including three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro designation.
In his tenure with the Eagles, Jackson's statistics are nothing short of impressive. He ranks third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35) over 95 games. His prowess was not limited to receiving; as a punt returner, he holds the second spot in punt returns (132) and is third in punt return yards (1,296). Additionally, Jackson shares the title of the Eagles' all-time leader in punt return touchdowns with Darren Sproles, each having four.
The Eagles will honor Jackson's contributions to the team by naming him an honorary captain for Sunday's game at Lincoln Financial Field, where fans will undoubtedly celebrate his storied career.
A Special Connection with Hurts
The bond between Jackson and Hurts was forged during Jackson's second stint with the Eagles from 2019 to 2020. Jackson's final catch—a memorable 81-yard touchdown pass from Hurts during a Week 16 clash against the Dallas Cowboys—served as a fitting capstone to his successful tenure with the franchise. The play came during a tumultuous 2020 season under then-head coach Doug Pederson and also marked Hurts' emergence as a capable successor to the struggling Carson Wentz.
Jackson recalled advocating for Hurts even when Wentz was the starting quarterback. “Everybody was like, ‘Why would we pick Jalen Hurts in the second round?’” Jackson said, reflecting on the skepticism surrounding Hurts' selection. It was Hurts who proactively sought out Jackson for training in Florida, which spoke volumes about his dedication and work ethic. “It was actually, he made it convenient because I trained in Tampa and he came out there and trained with me,” Jackson revealed. “We trained for like a whole week. We were able to build. I had just seen that his mentality was different then.”
Jackson admired Hurts' mature approach to the game, likening his mindset to that of "an uncle or an old father." This level-headedness, combined with his composed demeanor, convinced Jackson of Hurts' special qualities.
Hurts' ascension to the starting role was initially impeded by the franchise tag and a $128 million extension signed by Wentz. However, Wentz's performance declined sharply towards the end of the 2020 season, resulting in his benching and subsequent trade to the Indianapolis Colts, thus paving the way for Hurts to take the helm.
Now, in 2023, Hurts stands as a prominent figure in the NFL, demonstrating leadership and skill that have led to an impressive record. He has clinched victories in 27 of his last 29 starts, including a run of 16 wins out of 17 games. Notably, he boasts a streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams holding winning records—a feat unrivaled since at least 1950.
As Jackson transitions into retirement, he leaves behind a legacy of excellence and a belief in the bright future of his former teammate. With Hurts at the quarterback position, the Philadelphia Eagles appear to have found their leader for the coming years, ready to create his own legacy and perhaps, one day, join the ranks of Eagles legends like DeSean Jackson himself.