DeSean Jackson became a malcontent with the Eagles last season because he was upset about being underpaid, but that apparently did not deter the team from rewarding him. According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, Jackson has signed a five-year $51 million contract to remain with the Eagles.
DeSean has elite game-changing ability, but he has serious character concerns. He was deactivated for a game last season after missing a meeting. His teammates also thought he wasn’t trying during a Thursday night game against the Seahawks.
As good as Jackson is, and as important as he is to Philly’s passing game, you have to wonder about a guy who let his play drop off because he was too concerned about his money. Now that he has been paid, will he have the same motivation he had two seasons ago? You never know with a guy like that, and that’s what makes his contract a big risk for Philly.
We have to imagine the deal will be structured to give Jackson some money up front to please him, but will also allow Philly the ability to cut him if he becomes a problem.
UPDATE: Pro Football Talk has the full details on the contract. They say he’s receiving around $15 million guaranteed.
