Philadelphia's own DeSean Jackson has called time on a storied 15-year NFL career, making the announcement at the Eagles' training facility of NovaCare Complex. Known for his electrifying pace and game-changing plays, Jackson leaves behind a legacy as one of the most formidable deep threats the league has ever seen. Yet, even as he stepped away from the gridiron, Jackson's focus was not solely on his past achievements but also on the bright future of his quarterback, Jalen Hurts.
A Nod to the Future
In his parting remarks, Jackson didn't just reflect on his illustrious career; he made it a point to pass the torch, highlighting the potential of Hurts. At only 25 years old, Hurts has shown flashes of brilliance that have caught the eye of many, including Jackson. "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 as an Eagle, Jackson signed a ceremonial one-day contract with the franchise that drafted him 49th overall back in 2008. His initial six seasons with the Eagles were marked by three Pro Bowl selections and an All-Pro designation, solidifying his impact on the team.
With 95 games under his belt in Philadelphia, Jackson ranks third in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in touchdowns (35). Moreover, his prowess as a punt returner is etched into the Eagles' record books: he is second in punt returns (132) and third in punt return yards (1,296), sharing the top spot for punt return touchdowns (4) with Darren Sproles.
The Eagles will honor Jackson's contributions to the team by naming him as an honorary captain for Sunday's game at Lincoln Financial Field, allowing fans to celebrate one of their greats one final time.
Building Bonds and Breaking Records
Jackson's rapport with Hurts blossomed during his second tenure with the Eagles between 2019 and 2020. It was during this period that Jackson's final catch—a remarkable 81-yard touchdown—came from Hurts in a Week 16 bout against the Dallas Cowboys. This play not only underscored Jackson's enduring talent but also served as a symbolic passing of the baton to Hurts.
The 2020 season proved challenging, marking the end of Doug Pederson's coaching era in Philadelphia and featuring Hurts stepping up as a cost-effective alternative to the then incumbent Carson Wentz. Jackson recalled advocating for Hurts even when Wentz was the starter, a decision that raised eyebrows at the time. "Everybody was like, 'Why would we pick Jalen Hurts in the second round?'" Jackson remembered.
Hurts, who trained with Jackson in Tampa during the 2020 offseason, displayed a level of maturity and dedication that impressed the veteran receiver. "It was actually, he made it convenient because I trained in Tampa and he came out there and trained with me," Jackson recounted. "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' mindset as mature beyond his years, akin to "an uncle or an old father." This poise and composure, according to Jackson, signaled that there was something unique about the young quarterback.
While Wentz's tenure with the Eagles ended tumultuously after a $128 million extension failed to yield expected results, leading to his benching and subsequent move to the Indianapolis Colts, it opened the door for Hurts to step in and shine.
Hurts' Ascendancy
Fast forward to the present day, and Jalen Hurts has become a prominent figure in the NFL. His record speaks volumes: securing victories in 27 of his last 29 starts, including an incredible streak of 14 consecutive wins against teams with winning records—the longest since at least 1950. With such a performance, Hurts has not only filled the shoes left by his predecessors but has carved out his own legacy, one that promises to be as enduring as that of DeSean Jackson himself.
As Jackson embarks on his post-NFL life, he leaves behind a franchise rejuvenated by a young quarterback whose career he foresaw and supported from the very beginning. And as Hurts continues to grow and lead the Eagles, he does so with the endorsement of one of the team's all-time greats ringing in his ears.