Former Eagles' WR DeSean Jackson named Delaware State University head coach
PHILADELPHIA, PA - OCTOBER 22: Retired receiver DeSean Jackson looks on during the game between the Miami Dolphins and the Philadelphia Eagles on October 22, 2023 at Lincoln Financial Field. (Photo by Andy Lewis/Icon Sportswire via Getty Images)
PHILADELPHIA - Former NFL star and Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson has been named the head coach of Delaware State University's football team.
Jackson, 38, last played professional football with the Baltimore Ravens in 2022. His career included tours with six different teams, including eight total seasons in two stints in Philly.
"DeSean Jackson is a perfect fit for our institution – incredibly competitive, optimistic about the prospects for our collective future, and focused on the fundamentals of the institution: student first," Senior Associate Vice President for Athletics and Wellness Tony Tucker said.
A three-time Pro Bowler, Jackson still holds the NFL record for most 60+ and 80+ yard catches. Birds fans will most memorably recall his ‘Miracle at the Meadowlands’ punt return touchdown in 2010 that capped off a 21-point come-from-behind win over the Giants.
He signed a one-day contract to retire as an Eagle in 2023, and penned a letter to fans in which he called playing in Philadelphia "an honor."
Featured
DeSean Jackson retires as an Eagle, will be honorary captain on Sunday: 'Philly will always be my home'
Former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson is stepping away from football and will sign a ceremonial contract to retire as an Eagle.
"The opportunity for me to help write another chapter here at DSU is a once-in-a-lifetime moment consistent with my journey as a young boy finding his way to manhood through mentorship, accountability, achievement, and discipline," Jackson said.
Jackson highlighted his excitement about coaching at one of the country's Historically Black Colleges and Universities, which he says are "creating a more representative America."
"HBCUs have much to be proud of in creating a more representative America. But that story is not simply a historical one. It continues to be written and includes the elevation of HBCU scholars and scholar athletes in every field of human endeavor," Jackson said.
Jackson, whose only prior coaching gig was as an offensive coordinator at Woodrow Wilson High School in California, came with endorsements from current NFL coaches and players.
"DeSean is like a son to me – a fierce competitor on the field, without rival, and a quality leader off of it," Chiefs coach Andy Reid said. "I could not be more supportive of his desire to coach Division I football and would stake my career on his success at Delaware State University.
Delaware State University will formally introduce DeSean Jackson as its head coach during a press conference on Jan. 8.