Former Pro Bowl WR DeSean Jackson to retire as member of Eagles

Former Pro Bowl wide receiver DeSean Jackson retires as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles on Friday and will serve as honorary captain for Sunday’s game against the 49ers at Lincoln Financial Field.

Jackson played eight of his 15 NFL seasons with the Eagles, earning all three of his Pro Bowl nominations with Philadelphia. He was instrumental as a receiver and returner, leading the league in yards per reception four times.

“DeSean Jackson was a dynamic playmaker who captivated Eagles fans with his game-changing speed, unique skills and explosive play,” Eagles President Jeffrey Lurie said in a statement. “What really made DeSean stand out over his accomplished 15-year career was his ability to make miraculous plays seem routine.”

There was nothing routine about his most memorable play. On December 19, 2010, the Eagles overcame a 31–10 fourth quarter deficit against the rival Giants. New York punted with 12 seconds left and Jackson returned it 65 yards for a touchdown as time expired. The game became known as “Miracle at New Meadowlands”.

Jackson also played for Washington, Tampa Bay, Baltimore, Las Vegas and the Los Angeles Rams. He appeared in seven regular season games for Los Angeles in 2021, and although he didn’t make the team in the playoffs, he still won a Super Bowl ring.