2011 was the final season of DeSean Jackson’s rookie contract. It paid him $600,000 dollars. To a struggling writer that’s a pot of gold but to an NFL receiver it’s chump change. Jackson held out at the start of the season in hopes of a new contract. When the Eagles wouldn’t budge he eventually reported only to have his second consecutive season of declining numbers. In 2009, Jackson caught nine touchdown passes. In two seasons since he has combined for only 10 with six in 2010 and four in 2011. Because of this decline Jackson’s estimation of his value differs significantly from that of the Eagles. If a contract can’t be negotiated between the two parties DeSean Jackson will become a prized free agent in 2012. Here are five teams that could use his services.
Chicago Bears: The Bears desperately need help at the receiver position. The Roy Williams – Sam Hurd experiment in 2011 was an epic failure. Johnny Knox and Devin Hester are explosive but are complimentary receivers at best. By far the best receiver on the Bears’ roster is Earl Bennett. Quarterback Jay Cutler and Bennett have exceptional chemistry and productivity on the field. That would only be enhanced with a threat like Jackson added to the mix. If the Eagles let him walk, the Bears should take a hard look at him.
San Francisco 49ers: As much as the 49ers accomplished as a team this season they have a glaring deficiency of offensive talent at the wide receiver position. Coming into 2011 the Niners hoped that Braylon Edwards could boost their receiving corps but after missing most of the year with an injury, the 49ers released him. Michael Crabtree is a solid receiver and Vernon Davis can be a beast of a tight end as he proved during the playoffs. If the 49ers could land Jackson they would have a trio of offensive threats in the passing game that would give opposing defensive coordinators nightmares.
New England Patriots: This is a team that makes a lot of sense. As good as the Patriots are, they are missing a vertical threat in the passing game and that’s right up DeSean Jackson’s alley. Additionally the Patriots have a knack taking troubled talent from other teams and getting the most out of them. In 2011 New England brought in Chad Ochocinco in hopes of him becoming their down field playmaker but after not being able to learn the playbook and struggling in limited appearances it appears that Ochocinco might need a new home in 2012. If the Patriots can sign Jackson image the offense; Tom Brady, Wes Welker, DeSean Jackson, Aaron Hernandez, and Rob Gronkowski. Talk about intimidating.
Indianapolis Colts: What a better way to welcome Andrew Luck to the NFL than to bring in DeSean Jackson. The Colts franchise is in disarray right now. Peyton Manning and Jim Irsay are going back and forth, the future status of several key veterans to include Reggie Wayne and Manning remains in doubt, and no matter how good Luck is he can’t get it done alone. What a great way to revitalize a fan base after a 2-14 season that was followed by internal turmoil.
Denver Broncos: John Elway could put his money where his mouth is by bringing in Jackson. Earlier this month Elway stated that the Broncos were going to put pieces around Tim Tebow to give him the best chance to win. Signing Jackson would be a step in that direction. Regardless of whether or not Tebow remains the future for the Broncos, having Jackson on your roster would make the QB position for the all the more enticing for potential signees.
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