Delaware State University is reportedly on the verge of hiring DeSean Jackson, a celebrated former wide receiver for the Philadelphia Eagles, as its next head football coach. ESPN broke the story on Thursday, indicating that Jackson recently conducted an on-campus interview and both parties are expected to reach an agreement shortly.
Although Jackson lacks experience in a head coaching role, he boasts an impressive playing history with the Eagles from 2008 to 2013 and again in 2019-2020. He ranks eighth in franchise history with 6,897 receiving yards and sixth with 379 receptions. His time with the Eagles ended controversially in 2014 under coach Chip Kelly, despite Jackson having had his best season just prior, where he logged 82 receptions for 1,332 yards. Following this, he played for several teams including Washington, the Tampa Bay Buccaneers, the Los Angeles Rams, the Las Vegas Raiders, and the Baltimore Ravens, with his last professional season occurring in 2022.
Most recently, Jackson served as the wide receivers coach and punt return specialist at Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, California. His potential hiring comes after Delaware State made a coaching change, parting ways with Lee Hull after two challenging seasons, where the team recorded a dismal 2-21 overall and failed to secure a conference win.
Should Jackson take on this new role, he would join former teammate and quarterback Michael Vick, who was recently appointed head coach at Norfolk State, another school in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference.
This development can be seen as a positive stride for Delaware State, allowing Jackson the opportunity to transition from player to coach, possibly inspiring student-athletes through his extensive experience and knowledge of the game. Jackson’s hiring could rejuvenate the Hornets’ football program and inject excitement into the upcoming seasons.
Overall, this prospective change reflects a new chapter for both Jackson and Delaware State University, showcasing a commitment to developing young talent and fostering leadership within the athletic program.