Reasons the Release of DeSean Jackson Was Far From a Smart Move
Honestly thought the day wouldn’t come this soon, but DeSean Jackson has been released by the Eagles after having the best statistical season of his career. In move that shocked many, the purported reasoning for his release was his alleged involvement in gang-related activity off-field, attitude, and work ethic. Jackson has thus denied any such off-field activity. In the weeks leading up to his release, speculation had been circulating rapidly, from trade rumors to the idea that he may indeed would have been staying put after assuring his teammates and talking with head coach, Chip Kelly. Whatever the case, there’s no more rumors left, Jackson is indeed gone from Philly, and from what I believe, this decision will not favor Philly for a few simple reasons.
Of course, the clearest reason is Jackson’s over the top speed, which would leave defensive coordinators up at night and defensive backs restless. Along with a very quick supporting cast, many saw Philly’s offense as the fastest unit in the league for the time Jackson was there. Now, that notion may very well end up being taken away. Jeremy Maclin is fast in his own right but does not come close to the burning quickness of Jackson. Not only does the offense suffer from this loss, but of course the special teams. Jackson was a formidable force in the return game since the day he came into the NFL, and is perhaps most well known for his walk-off return against the Giants in 2010. Now not only will someone have to replace him at the wideout position, but also as a return specialist, and I doubt a single person will be able to fill bot roles, given Jackson’s exceptional versatility.
Another is that I doubt Philly will be able to find another market receiver that will fit Kelly’s system as well as Jackson did. As mentioned before, Jackson had his best statistical year, which gives us all a pretty good idea of how well adept he was to an offense like Kelly’s. When Kelly came from Oregon and arrived in Philly, he was getting ready to coach a virtually identical offense to his college team. Both teams specialized in speed, in which it seemed that was to be found at nearly every offensive position. I cannot see them drafting a receiver (and they most likely will) that will be able to boast the same threat every Sunday that Jackson did.
Whatever the reason for his release, Philly has downgraded this offense substantially, rival, interconference, and conference teams will no longer consider their offense too much of a threat even with the acquisition of Darren Sproles. If the Eagles do intend to find someone to fill the shoes of someone of the likes of DeSean Jackson, I can’t see that happening for awhile.
