DeSean Jackson officially released
Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson (10) carries the ball during the second quarter against the Chicago Bears at Lincoln Financial Field. The Eagles defeated the Bears 54-11. Mandatory Credit: Howard Smith-USA TODAY Sports
Despite coming off of a career year, DeSean Jackson has been the subject of heavy trade rumors this offseason, and he has clearly fallen out of favor with the organization. Philadelphia Eagles head coach is reportedly concerned with Jackson’s me-first attitude, as it is believed that Kelly feels Jackson isn’t buying into the Eagles system. The re-signings of Riley Cooper and Jeremy Maclin helped make the talented receiver expendable, and there were also reported concerns with his ties to gangs.
Although a number of teams were linked to Jackson in trade rumors, he was always expected to be released due to the Eagles zeal to trade him (huge red flag for teams), as well as his salary. D-Jax is set to make $30 million over the next three seasons, and it never seemed like anyone would be willing to spend that much on a player who stated early in the offseason that he wanted more guaranteed money.
The Eagles have officially announced the release of DeSean Jackson, and it’s going to be interesting to see where he lands next. The New York Jets are among the teams that have been linked to him, but I can’t see anybody paying much for him following the report of his gang ties. It’s important to note that the piece was published shortly before his release, but there is little doubt that it will drive down his price regardless of whether or not it’s true. Based on the Eagles willingness to get rid of him, there has to be at least several kernels of truth to the story, but teams and reporters will continue to dig.