Former Las Vegas Raiders wide receiver DeSean Jackson. Trevor Ruszkowski-USA TODAY Sports

DeSean Jackson comments on retirement rumors

By Mike Santa Barbara | Last updated 7/16/23

Shortly after sharing an Instagram post hinting at possible retirement, veteran wideout DeSean Jackson cleared the air Sunday.

In a separate post, Jackson said he wasn't retiring and only needed to get some "stuff" off his chest. Jackson continued, reiterating his desire to retire as a Philadelphia Eagle, the team that drafted him in 2008.

Free agent WR DeSean Jackson makes it clear he isn’t retiring, despite people interpreting an earlier post this morning as an announcement of his retirement. pic.twitter.com/l8NnhG4igV
— Ari Meirov (@MySportsUpdate) July 16, 2023

Known for his explosive game-breaking ability, Jackson emerged as a star for the Eagles from 2008-13. After being unceremoniously released by then-head coach Chip Kelly in 2013, Jackson joined rival Washington for three seasons (2014-16) before catching on with the Tampa Bay Buccaneers for two campaigns (2017-18).

Jackson returned to the Eagles in 2019, playing eight games over the next two seasons before splitting the 2021 season with the Las Vegas Raiders and Los Angeles Rams, where he won a Super Bowl ring. Last October, Jackson signed on with the Baltimore Ravens.

Jackson played seven games for the Ravens in 2022 but was virtually a non-factor, catching nine of 17 targets for 153 yards. At age 36, Jackson is nearing the end, but his social media post seems to indicate he's still available if the phone rings.

There's always a chance at a third reunion with the Eagles. However, if that day ultimately comes, Jackson will likely be signing a one-day deal ahead of retirement. Jackson certainly deserves that honor. He made three Pro Bowls in midnight green and still ranks third in franchise history in receiving yards (6,512).