DeSean Jackson insists he’s at peace. Not to mention, being back in touch with his sense of humility.
As one of the league’s best wideouts, Jackson readily admits he would have never predicted the week for himself that just was, a period of days that first saw him vilified, then waived by the Philadelphia Eagles, the only pro team he’s ever known.
On the day he officially joined the Washington Redskins, Jackson described the recent events as a “humbling experience,” yet one that prepares for him what he’s convinced will afford him his greatest shining moment of all.
“They embraced me,” Jackson told ESPN of a contingent that included quarterback Robert Griffin III and spent days meeting and greeting him prior to getting his Hancock.
Jackson inked a three-year deal worth $24 million, $16 of it guaranteed and coming with a $5 million signing bonus. Still, Jackson insists the clincher for him was all the time and effort the likes of RGIII and DeAngelo Hall spent in convincing him that he’s even more valuable to them in terms of realizing all their playoff aspirations.
“After everything that was going on the past couple days and the last week, that’s a big step and first move for me,” said Jackson. “I was at a point in my career that made me very humble. Griffin had a big part in getting me to sign here. I credit him and DeAngelo to the utmost. Them guys stood up for me. They knew what my talent was and what I could bring to this team.”
As for all the tales about him he leaves behind, Jackson took the high road, telling reporters “eventually people will see the real DeSean Jackson and not see the painted picture that was put out on me. I’ll do everything I need to be a Washington Redskin and be respected by people in this league and the organization.”
In D.C., Jackson is poised to join a potent passing attack that also includes receivers Pierre Garcon, Andre Roberts, Santana Moss and tight end Jordan Reed.
“The biggest thing for this move is finding a place where I can be happy and go out and be myself,” Jackson said, “and here was the best fit for that, so I’m very excited.”
