Former Eagles WR DeSean Jackson catches first coaching job — as head coach at DSU

 

DOVER — Delaware State University’s Athletic Transformation project, which was launched two years ago with a $1 million gift from alum Steve Ewing ’83 and $9 million from the State, is reportedly close to taking a huge step forward with the hiring of former NFL All-Pro wide receiver (and Eagles legend) DeSean Jackson as head football coach, according to sources within the University and published reports.

Three-time Pro Bowler Jackson played 15 seasons for six NFL teams, including three markets — Philadelphia, Washington, and Baltimore — likely to be prime targets for his recruiting efforts.  Jackson’s career started as a big-play receiver for the Eagles and his football resume includes the NFL record for most 60+-yard catches. Jackson also played for the LA Rams, the LA Raiders, and the Tampa Bay Buccaneers.

It’s a significant first accomplishment for new DSU Athletic Director and Delaware native Charles “Tony” Tucker, who is replacing Alicia Shields-Gadsen. DSU announced on Dec. 3 that Shields-Gadsen would step down to pursue new opportunities, and Tucker was adding to his current responsibilities as senior associate vice president for athletics and wellness.

Former Head Coach Lee Hull, who went 2-21 during his two years at the university, was fired Dec. 3.

Jackson retired in 2022 and played for the Eagles from 2008-13 and again from 2019-20. He ranks eighth in Eagles history with 6,897 receiving yards and sixth in reception with 379.

DeSean Jackson hire will raise DSU profile

The high-profile hire comes with DSU ranking in the top 5 public HBCUs and top 10 overall, under the leadership of President and Former Provost Tony Allen. It is also the top choice for students of color in Delaware. More than 70% of incoming, in-state first-year students are recipients of the state-sponsored Inspire scholarship, awarded to any Delaware graduating high-school senior with a 2.75 GPA.

DSU applicants likely grew up as Jackson fans, particularly during his time at or near the top in NFL jersey sales. His apparent hiring, first reported by ESPN earlier in the day, comes within a few days of former teammate Michael Vick being named head coach at fellow MEAC school, Norfolk State.

The Athletic Transformation project is expected to cost more than $25 million, with the centerpiece being an indoor training facility for all DSU scholar-athletes and key changes to Alumni Stadium. The initial donation came from Ewing, the keynote speaker at DSU’s December 2017 commencement. He is the president and CEO of Smyrna, GA-based Wade Ford, one of the nation’s largest African-American Ford dealerships.

Jackson grew up in the Crenshaw neighborhood of South Los Angeles and will be the subject of a documentary scheduled to be released this fall on Amazon Prime.