Desean Jackson To Get Franchise Tag

Desean Jackson wants to get paid big bread. He has openly expressed that through interviews on and off the camera. Jackson just completed the final season of his rookie contract in which he made $685,000 in 2011. Not a bad bargain considering when in mind is in the game, Jackson is arguably the most explosive deep threat in the National Football League. Personally, I think it is a good idea to get the deal out of the way and pay D-Jac. He has exceeded all expectations from the time when he was drafted in the second round by the Eagles until now. Although he is somewhat controversial and doesn't hold back from expressing his swagger, Jackson is a very, very talented player. Jackson implements many positives on the offensive side of the football, Michael Vick loves throwing to him, and he is a threat to take it to the house every time every time he gets his hands on the ball. (58 receptions, 961 yards, 4 touchdowns, no punt returns for touchdowns in 2011). 

Indeed, he does lack the size and physicality to cross the middle of the field at 5'10'' 175 pounds but his speed and agility doesn't come across the eyes of football fans all too often. If given the franchise tag, Jackson's salary in 2012 will sky rocket to $9.4 million for just one year. The only question is, will the Eagles keep him or use him as trade bait? One for one players trades in the NFL are rare, but with a player of Jackson's talent, the Birds would be able to fill a decent void with a very solid defensive player and possibly go after a tall physical Randy Moss or Plaxico Burress type receiver whom will cost considerably less dollars.

The smart move in my eyes would be to sign Jackson to a multi-year deal, as well as picking up a tall red zone target. Randy Moss stated today that he wants back in the league but will only sign with a team that has the opportunity to win a ring. The Eagles have not had a big presence on the outside since Terrell Owens and it paid huge dividends for Donovan McNabb in 2004....The year when the Eagles advanced to the Super Bowl (Heart Breaker). Michael Vick would benefit greatly with having Jackson, Maclin, Celek, Avant, and a tall receiver to throw the skin up to in the red-zone. Scary to think about but if the Eagles Front Office wants a stellar chance at winning a ring they'll make the necessary moves. Keep in mind that Vick had no time to work with the coaching staff last offseason because of the lockout ridden season. Something that won't be the case this year.