The Eagles Should Franchise DeSean Jackson, Then Trade Him
The Philadelphia Eagles have a very important decision looming over their franchise: what does the organization do with immensely talented, but occasionally immature wide receiver DeSean Jackson? There is no doubt that Jackson has the ability to change the tide of a game every time he has the ball in his hands. The only problem is that sometimes the changes that occur are not in favor of Philadelphia due to costly (immature and unnecessary) penalties or turnovers that result from him trying to do too much. DeSean also made several disparaging comments at the beginning of the year, and, whether intentional or not, created an even bigger media circus around the club.
With an incredibly talented crop of wide receivers on the free agent market, Philadelphia does have options at the receiver position, especially considering the franchise seems to have become a coveted place to play. This year’s free agent group includes the likes of: Vincent Jackson, Wes Welker, Reggie Wayne, Dwayne Bowe, Marques Colston, Steve Johnson, Brandon Lloyd, Robert Meachem, Mario Manningham and Laurent Robinson. Some of the individuals on that list are obviously less attractive to Philadelphia than others, and not all of them are going to be available.
Out of this free agent group, one of the most intriguing options for the Eagles is Marques Colston, who would fill a few roles for Philadelphia. He’s a matchup nightmare at 6’4” and 225 pounds of pure physical ability. In 2011, Colston caught 80 passes for 1,143 yards and 8 touchdowns; a feat made even more impressive considering how much Saints quarterback Drew Brees likes to spread the ball around. Colston’s size, combined with the physical nature of his game would give the Eagles the Red Zone threat that they have been so clearly lacking in recent years. Not to mention that Colston is a hometown guy, growing up a mere hour and a half from Philadelphia (in the same area as LeSean McCoy). Colston could clearly step up and take on the number one receiver role in Philadelphia, and I can see him becoming a favorite of Michael Vick very quickly.
Reports are that Philadelphia will, indeed, franchise Jackson, which is a move that could very possibly upset the diva receiver. Who knows how he’s going to react. Is he going to show up and play to prove that he is worth a hefty, long term contract? Or will he pout and give 50% effort, as we’ve seen him do at times in the past? There are quite a few teams in the league that are in desperate need of a quality wide receiver, and it would behoove the Eagles to explore those avenues while seeking a big time receiver that will bring less drama to the team. Saint Louis, Jacksonville, Seattle and Chicago are just a few teams that immediately come to mind. Based on potential, the Eagles should be able to get something worthwhile in return for Jackson, but they’re certainly not going to give him away for an offer they don’t feel is adequate.
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