Former Buccaneers Wide Receiver Reacts To Retirement Rumors

The NFL veteran remains unsigned ahead of training camp.

Dustin Lewis | Jul 17, 2023

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Tampa Bay Buccaneers

Veteran wide receiver DeSean Jackson has spent 15 years as a deep threat across the NFL. However, he remains unsigned ahead of training camp after playing on a one-year deal with the Baltimore Ravens in 2022.

On Sunday, Jackson made a post on Instagram that seemed to hint at his possible retirement. However, hours later, he clarified that he's not planning to step away from the game at this point in his career.

"They reaching my last post wasn't a retirement post! I just had to get some stuff off my chest!! Ya'll will know when the boi retire!!"

Along with his message on Instagram, he included an Eagle emoji which is probably a reference to the Philadelphia Eagles, the team with which he's spent most of his professional career. It wouldn't be a surprise if he chose to retire with Philadephia when he decides that it is time to hang up the cleats.

The Eagles selected Jackson in the second round of the 2008 NFL Draft. He played in Philadelphia for six years prior to a second stint with the franchise after he was traded back to the Eagles in 2019 by Tampa Bay.

He spent two years with the Buccaneers after signing a three-year/$33.5 million deal in free agency. Jackson was a useful option alongside Mike Evans as he caught 91 passes for 1,442 yards (15.8 YPC), and seven touchdowns during his time with the franchise.

During his career, Jackson has totaled 641 receptions for 11,263 yards with 58 receiving touchdowns. He also rushed 72 times for 463 yards and four more scores. Jackson recorded 39 career games of 100+ yards in his 15 years, including four in Tampa Bay.

There are a couple of teams around the league that could use a reliable veteran. It wouldn't be a surprise to see Jackson return to Baltimore and the New England Patriots are also looking for a wide receiver after missing out on DeAndre Hopkins.

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Published Jul 17, 2023

DUSTIN LEWIS

Lewis joined BucsGameday when it was founded in 2022. He's also the Editor-In-Chief of NoleGameday. A graduate of Florida State, Lewis has worked for NG since 2016.