DeSean Jackson, known for his electrifying speed and agility, became one of the most exciting wide receivers in the National Football League (NFL) during his career. Born on December 1, 1986, in Los Angeles, California, Jackson attended Long Beach Polytechnic High School, where he excelled in football and track. His athletic prowess earned him a scholarship to the University of California, Berkeley, where he played college football for the California Golden Bears.
In the 2008 NFL Draft, the Philadelphia Eagles selected Jackson in the second round, making him the 49th overall pick. His rookie season was marked by immediate impact, as he quickly became a favorite target for Eagles quarterbacks. Jackson's ability to stretch the field with his speed made him a constant deep threat, and he finished his first season with 912 receiving yards and two touchdowns. His performance earned him a spot on the NFL All-Rookie Team.
Jackson's career with the Eagles was characterized by his big-play ability. In 2010, he delivered one of the most memorable moments in NFL history with a game-winning punt return touchdown against the New York Giants, known as the "Miracle at the New Meadowlands." That season, he recorded 1,056 receiving yards and six touchdowns, earning his second Pro Bowl selection.
In 2014, Jackson signed with the Washington Football Team (then known as the Redskins) after being released by the Eagles. He continued to be a deep threat, leading the league in yards per reception in 2014 and 2016. His tenure in Washington was productive, with Jackson consistently posting impressive yardage totals despite battling injuries.
Jackson joined the Tampa Bay Buccaneers in 2017, where he played for two seasons. His time in Tampa Bay was marked by flashes of brilliance, including a strong start to the 2018 season where he recorded over 100 receiving yards in three of the first four games. However, injuries again limited his overall impact.
In 2019, Jackson returned to the Philadelphia Eagles, bringing his career full circle. His second stint with the Eagles was hampered by injuries, but he still managed to showcase his speed and playmaking ability when healthy. In a memorable Week 1 game against the Washington Football Team, Jackson caught two long touchdown passes, reminding fans of his game-breaking potential.
Jackson's career continued with brief stints at the Los Angeles Rams and the Las Vegas Raiders. While his role diminished with age, he remained a respected veteran presence and a threat on the field due to his speed.
Throughout his career, Jackson was known for his ability to change the dynamics of a game with a single play.
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