DeSean Jackson, the former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver, is reportedly on the verge of becoming the next head football coach at Delaware State University. After spending 15 years playing in the NFL, Jackson, 38, has had his dream of coaching at a historically black college or university (HBCU) come closer to fruition.
According to ESPN, Jackson recently completed on-campus interviews, and both he and Delaware State are expected to finalize the agreement shortly. This move marks another significant transition for Jackson, who retired from professional football after his final season with the Baltimore Ravens in 2022.
The dynamic wide receiver has already dipped his toe back in the world of football this past year, serving as an assistant coach at Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, California. Jackson’s coaching experience, albeit at the high school level, has equipped him with the tools necessary for the collegiate ranks, where he will take the reins of Delaware State's struggling Hornets team.
Delaware State has had its fair share of hardships recently, finishing the 2023 and 2024 seasons with just one win each year. Their 2022 season was slightly more promising, ending with a record of 5-6. Jackson’s leadership is hoped to revamp the program, which aims to build back its competitiveness within the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC).
Jackson is no stranger to successful football. During his illustrious NFL career, he amassed 641 receptions, totaling 11,263 yards and 66 touchdowns. Most of his Pro Bowl selections came during his time with the Eagles, where he made key contributions such as his unforgettable punt return during the "Miracle at the Meadowlands II," which won the game against the New York Giants.
The hiring of Jackson follows another significant move within the college football coaching ranks—his former teammate Michael Vick was recently appointed as head coach at Norfolk State University. “I understand the value of HBCUs,” Vick stated during his press conference, emphasizing his commitment to serve his community through leadership roles at these impactful institutions.
Jackson has expressed deep admiration for HBCUs throughout his career and has long wanted to make his mark within these football programs. ESPN reported, “Jackson has always wanted to coach at an HBCU program, and Delaware State will fulfill his dream for him.” This reflects not only Jackson’s personal ambitions but also the broader trend of former NFL stars transitioning to coaching roles at colleges.
Former players like Deion Sanders at Jackson State and Edward George at Tennessee State have made names for themselves, impacting their respective programs and eleving the profile of HBCUs on the national stage. The recent trend of NFL alumni stepping away from their professional careers to take roles within college football programs marks significant opportunities for mentorship among young athletes.
Jackson's transition from star player to coach at Delaware State carries promise—not just for the team but for broader HBCU athletic programs. With Jackson at the helm, the hope is for rejuvenated excitement and advancements within the program.
Supporters are eager to see what Jackson brings to the table as he embarks on this venture. The prospect of turning around Delaware State's fortunes with his extensive NFL experience could set new standards for the program and resonate within the local community.
With Jackson nearing finalization of his deal, it signals the beginning of what many hope will be significant change and resurgence for Delaware State football. His stepping up as head coach gives him the chance not only to teach players how to navigate the field but also to mentor them off it, reinforcing the mission of HBCUs to serve and uplift the communities they are part of.
While the final agreement isn’t confirmed yet, the air is thick with anticipation. Fans and stakeholders alike are hopeful of Jackson’s capability to channel his celebrated career and passion for HBCUs, steering Delaware State toward renewed competitiveness and success within college football.
