The university will introduce Jackson to the media at a press conference on January 8.
“The opportunity for me to help write another chapter here at DSU is a once-in-a-lifetime moment consistent with my journey as a young boy finding his way to manhood through mentorship, accountability, achievement, and discipline,” Jackson said in a press release. “If we build that kind of culture at Delaware State University, we will attract the right talent and radically change the trajectory of this program. I cannot wait to get started.”
Jackson, 38, played 15 seasons in the NFL; the three-time Pro Bowler spent most of his career with the Eagles(eight seasons) and spent time with Washington, Buccaneers, Rams, Raiders, and Ravens. He officially retired from the NFL as an Eagle in 2023.
“DeSean Jackson is a perfect fit for our institution – incredibly competitive, optimistic about the prospects for our collective future, and focused on the fundamentals of the institution: STUDENTS FIRST,” said Delaware State Athletic Director Tony Tucker.
Chiefs head coach Andy Reid, who drafted Jackson and coached him during his time with the Eagles, had high praise for his former wide receiver.
“DeSean is like a son to me – a fierce competitor on the field, without rival, and a quality leader off of it,” said Reid. “I could not be more supportive of his desire to coach Division I football and would stake my career on his success at Delaware State University. We are bound at the hip and are forever family. I cannot wait to see where he takes the University and where the University takes him. This is a win-win for everyone, particularly the young men that get to learn from him and the incredible staff he will assemble – many football aficionados who have been with him since the very beginning.”
Sean McVay, who coached Jackson during his time with the Rams, believes Jackson is perfect for the job.
“I could talk about this guy all day, but the short of it is that you get a high-character leader of men, a student of the game, and an authentic passion that will inspire new supporters to Delaware State University football,” said McVay.
Delaware State, who was 1-11 last season, fired their head coach of two years, Lee Hull, earlier this month. Hull won only two games during his two seasons at the university.
Jackson, the nephew of Del State legend and former 49ers star wide receiver John Taylor, is following his former teammate, Michael Vick, who was recently named head coach at Norfolk State. Norfolk State and Delaware State are in the same conference(MEAC) and will face off next year.
Both Jackson and Vick have a lot of work to do, but both Jackson and Vick seem committed to getting the job done!
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