One of the most electrifying players in NFL history, DeSean Jackson will officially retire as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles on Friday, December 1. The three-time Pro Bowl wide receiver – all with Philadelphia – will be recognized as the Honorary Captain of the Game in front of a sold-out crowd at Lincoln Financial Field on Sunday, December 3.
“DeSean Jackson was a dynamic playmaker who captivated Eagles fans with his game-breaking speed, unique skill set, and explosive play,” said Jeffrey Lurie, Philadelphia Eagles Chairman and CEO. “What made DeSean truly stand out during his accomplished 15-year career was his ability to make miraculous plays look routine. We all remember him scooping up the football in New York on that fateful evening in December 2010 and veering his way into the end zone for what is now famously referred to as the ‘Miracle at the New Meadowlands.’ We are thrilled to welcome DeSean back and look forward to celebrating his official retirement as an Eagle on Sunday when he serves as our Honorary Captain of the Game.”
Originally a second-round draft pick (49th overall) of the Eagles in the 2008 NFL Draft, Jackson spent eight of his 15 seasons in Philadelphia, where he garnered three Pro Bowl nods (2009, 2010, 2013) as a dual-threat on offense and special teams. In 95 career games with the Eagles, he ranks third all-time in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379), and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35). As a punt returner, he finished second in punt returns (132), third in punt return yards (1,296), and is the team’s all-time leader in punt return touchdowns (tied Darren Sproles with four).
During his career, Jackson etched his name in many NFL record book categories:
• Became the first player in NFL history to earn Pro Bowl honors at two positions – kick returner and wide receiver.
• Tied the NFL record with eight touchdowns of 50-plus yards in a single season.
• His 52.8 yards per score average during the 2009 season was the highest in NFL history among players with at least 10 touchdowns in a season.
• Became the second player in NFL history to score touchdowns via receiving, rushing, and punt return during each of his first three seasons.
• Became the fifth player in NFL history to have eclipsed 900 or more receiving yards in each of his first four seasons.
