Philadelphia Eagles' iconic wide receiver DeSean Jackson announced his retirement from the NFL after a storied 15-year career. The announcement came at the Eagles’ training facility, NovaCare Complex, where Jackson took the opportunity to express his confidence in quarterback Jalen Hurts' abilities and future prospects.
Jackson, who is widely considered one of the most formidable deep threats in NFL history, offered high praise for Hurts, highlighting his talent and mindset. He reflected on several instances when the young quarterback had made an impression on him, saying, “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 legacy with the team that drafted him 49th overall in 2008, Jackson signed a one-day contract to retire as an Eagle. During his initial six-season run with the team, Jackson earned three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro honor.
With the Eagles, Jackson's stats are impressive: he ranks third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35) over 95 games. As a punt returner, he holds the second spot in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296). Notably, Jackson shares the franchise record for punt return touchdowns with Darren Sproles, each having four.
The Eagles will celebrate Jackson's contributions by naming him an honorary captain at the upcoming game at Lincoln Financial Field this Sunday.
A Special Connection with Hurts
Jackson developed a rapport with Hurts during his second tenure with the Eagles in 2019-2020. His final catch for the franchise was a memorable 81-yard touchdown pass from Hurts during a Week 16 matchup against the Dallas Cowboys.
This pivotal moment came during a tumultuous 2020 season under then-head coach Doug Pederson, which also marked Hurts' emergence as a viable starter over the struggling Carson Wentz. Reflecting on that period, Jackson shared, “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, demonstrating initiative and dedication, opted to train with Jackson in Florida. Jackson disclosed that there were questions about why Hurts was training with him instead of Wentz, stating, “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 possessing a mature mindset beyond his years, likening his approach to that of "an uncle or an old father." This composure led Jackson to believe in Hurts' unique qualities, asserting, “there’s something special about him.”
While Hurts' ascension was initially hampered by Wentz's franchise tag and subsequent $128 million extension, Wentz's decline towards the end of the 2020 season — culminating in his benching — strained their relationship. Wentz eventually orchestrated a move to the Indianapolis Colts, paving the way for Hurts to become the Eagles' starting quarterback.
Fast-forward to 2023, and Hurts has established himself as one of the NFL’s leading quarterbacks. He boasts an impressive record, securing victories in 27 of his last 29 starts, including winning 16 out of 17 games. Remarkably, Hurts has achieved a streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams with winning records, a feat that hasn't been matched since at least 1950.
As Jackson steps away from the gridiron, his endorsement not only reflects on a remarkable career but also shines a spotlight on the promising path of Jalen Hurts. With such a strong vote of confidence from a player of Jackson's caliber, the Eagles' community and fans have much to look forward to in the coming seasons.