Wide receiver DeSean Jackson announced his retirement from the NFL on Wednesday. The three-time Pro Bowler will retire as a member of the Philadelphia Eagles, where he spent eight out of his 15 years in the league.
Jackson’s official retirement ceremony will take place on Friday, and he’ll serve as an honorary captain for the team when the Eagles face the San Francisco 49ers on Sunday.
“DeSean Jackson was a dynamic playmaker who captivated Eagles fans with his game-breaking speed, unique skill set, and explosive play,” said Eagles chairman Jeffrey Lurie in a team-released statement. “What made DeSean truly stand out during his accomplished 15-year career was his ability to make miraculous plays look routine.”
Jackson entered the league as the Eagles’ second-round pick in 2008. He established himself as one of the most dynamic players in the league early in his career, playing both as a wideout and punt returner. He was the NFL leader in yards per punt return in his sophomore year while also having four punts returned for a touchdown throughout his first three seasons.
Jackson spent six seasons with Philadelphia, earning three Pro Bowl nods, before embarking on stints with Washington and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers. He returned to Philly in 2019 for his second stint with the franchise before leaving again after the 2020 campaign. The 36-year-old last played in 2022, appearing in seven games for the Baltimore Ravens and making nine catches for 153 yards.
