Multiple reports indicate that Delaware State University is close to finalizing a deal with former Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson to become the next head football coach. Although the agreement has not yet been finalized, sources indicate that Jackson and the university are close to an official announcement.
Just got a second source. Former #NFL Pro Bowler Desean Jackson will become the next Head Coach at Delaware State. S/O to @OffScript_Vidz with the help. https://t.co/xCVgD7c9Ir pic.twitter.com/c2QilQHVB8
— Jeff Lightsy Jr. (@jlightsy7) December 26, 2024
Jackson On Field
Jackson, 38, completed his illustrious NFL career in December 2023, retiring as a member of the Eagles after an impressive 15 seasons with six teams. He was a standout player for Philadelphia from 2008 to 2013 and again from 2019 to 2020, earning three Pro Bowl selections and making a notable impact with his game-breaking speed. He also played for the Washington Redskins (2014–2016), Tampa Bay Buccaneers (2017–2018), Los Angeles Rams (2021), Las Vegas Raiders (2021), and Baltimore Ravens (2022).
The news comes on the heels of Jackson’s recent role as an assistant football coach at Woodrow Wilson High School in Long Beach, California, during the 2024 season. Reports suggest he completed an on-campus interview with Delaware State earlier this week. ESPN’s Pete Thamel confirmed that coaching an HBCU has long been Jackson’s dream.
Desean Jackson and Delaware State are finalizing an agreement for him to take the head coaching job there, per ESPN sources. He did an on-campus interview in recent days and the sides are expected to come together in the near future. pic.twitter.com/KXO0AvGVbL
— Pete Thamel (@PeteThamel) December 26, 2024
Jackson will replace Lee Hull, who was dismissed from the position after the Hornets concluded their season with a disappointing 1-11 record. The team plays in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference of the Football Championship Subdivision and has not experienced a winning season since 2012.
From NFL Star to HBCU Coach
As he transitions from player to coach, Jackson brings a wealth of experience and a desire to inspire the next generation of Delaware State athletes. He follows in the footsteps of other notable sports figures, including his former teammate Michael Vick, who was recently appointed head coach at Norfolk State. Jackson finished his career with 641 catches, 1,145 yards, and 58 touchdowns, and his hiring at Delaware State could mark a new chapter for the struggling program.
