WISHFUL IN WASHINGTON: Desean Jackson's Impact on the 2014 Washington Redskins

“DeSean Jackson #10 of the Philadelphia Eagles outruns Oshiomogho Atogwe #20 of the Washington Redskins for a touchdown after catching a pass during the second half at Lincoln Financial Field on January 1, 2012 in Philadelphia, Pennsylvania.  

(Source: Rob Carr/Getty Images North America)”

You’re the Redskins owner and you have a chance to sign one of the most dynamic playmakers in the game today, of course Daniel Snyder wouldn’t pass up that opportunity.  As reported from numerous sources, former explosive Philadelphia Eagles wide receiver DeSean Jackson signed with Washington Redskins.  After six great years in Philadelphia, he is now playing in yet another NFC East city and this time, he’s taking his talents to the nation’s capital.  Prior to the signing, Speculations were drawn up on whether Jackson would sign with the Redskins or with one of the other teams interested such as the Cleveland Browns, Oakland Raiders, and the San Francisco 49ers.  After all of the speculation and rumors, Washington ended up being the place for Jackson.  Jackson agreed to a three year, $24 million dollar contract with $16 million guaranteed.  With the acquisition, are the Redskins the favorite in the NFC East?

“Desmond Trufant #21 of the Atlanta Falcons breaks up a two-point conversion attempt intended for Pierre Garcon #88 of the Washington Redskins at Georgia Dome on December 15, 2013 in Atlanta, Georgia. (Photo by Kevin C. Cox/Getty Images)”

 After making the drastic decision in the 2012 NFL Draft by trading to draft the talented quarterback, Robert Griffin III, Washington went (10-6) and won their first NFC East crown since 1999.  Unfortunately, the following season, the Redskins had a down 2013 campaign.  Last season in Washington was filled with the ups and downs of RGIII as he tried to recover from season ending knee surgery that occurred during their wild card loss against Seattle the prior year.  A (3-13) finish last year after the success of the 2012 campaign was due to a number of issues.  From the health of your star QB, the dysfunctional marriage between RGIII and former head coach Mike Shanahan, and the disaster that they considered as “their defense” can squander your hopes of another postseason trip. The acquisition of DeSean Jackson will boost their offense; but will not completely change things in Washington.

Philadelphia wide receiver DeSean Jackson runs for a 91-yard touchdown with Dallas Cowboys' Terence Newman (41) and Orlando Scandrick (32) in pursuit during the second half of the Eagles' 30-27 victory.

Jackson, now entering his 7th season, is coming off one of his best years in his career.  The 3 time Pro- Bowler posted  (1,332) yards receiving and 9 touchdowns, which were both career highs.  2013 was Jackson's third season of 1,000 yards or more for his career.  His tenure in Philadelphia, Jackson provided a huge boost to the Eagles on the football field.  Even having to endure the multiple changes happening around their organization from the coaches, different quarterbacks, and offensive philosophy, Jackson found ways to flourish as only a great player would.  His breakaway speed makes him one of the biggest deep ball threats in the NFL today.  Last season, the Redskins ranked dead last in the NFL in deep pass completions and targets.  Jackson’s career average is 17.2 yards per catch.  Having DeSean Jackson opposite of Pierre Garcon will take some of the pressure off Garcon.  Garcon led the league in catches last season and with the additions of Andre Roberts, acquired from Arizona this off-season, was a solid role receiver behind Larry Fitzgerald, and the long-time veteran in Santana Moss, this is a solid receiving corps for RGIII heading into the 2014 campaign.  A valid number two receiver is what Jackson will provide for Washington and his talents provide an immediate upgrade to the Redskins offense and also he’ll bring a huge spark to the Redskins special teams because their return game was less than average over the previous years. Jackson is an all-purpose boost to Washington as he posted (32) receiving, (3) rushing, and 4 punt returns for touchdowns in his career.  His addition to go with an already talented group of running backs will make the Redskins a balanced, yet prolific offense this season.

 Oct 20, 2013; Landover, MD, USA; Chicago Bears wide receiver Devin Hester (23) runs with the ball past Washington Redskins defensive back Jose Gumbs (48) to make a touchdown in the second quarter at FedEx Field. Mandatory Credit: Geoff Burke-USA TODAY Sports

As I stated earlier, the 2013 Washington Redskins defense wasn’t feared by any of their opponents.  Washington finished 31st in points allowed averaging (29.9) a game, and when you add that along with being ranked in the bottom half of the league in stopping the run, pass and total yards allowed, your defense don’t have much hope for their future .  They did bring back former Steeler, Giant and Redskin safety Ryan Clark to add in the secondary with Tracy Porter and 11 year all pro DeAngelo Hall and used the franchise tag on stud Brian Orakpo  for one year.  Washington also grabbed Jason Hatcher from another divisional foe, the Dallas Cowboys.  Hatcher, now 31 years of age, is coming off one of his best seasons in the “Big D” posting eleven sacks last year.  With the acquisition of the veterans on defense along with the leadership and growth of younger players, the Redskins defense should be much better next season; however will it resonate on the field?? As we know, Snyder is known for gambling on older players and giving huge contracts, which the results are often less than impactful.  Last year’s defense came close to reaching the 2012 New Orleans Saints who surrendered the most yards in NFL History.  It will still take more than just DeSean to bring success in the "Chocolate City."

Desean Jackson smiles as he wears Redskins gear for the first time.

As we wrap this article up, in order for DeSean to provide a huge impact for the Redskins not just for next season but for all three seasons, he’ll have to respect authority and it starts with the head coach.  Jay Gruden. Gruden, the brother of former Super Bowl champion and ESPN's Monday Night Football analyst Jon Gruden, will have his hands full in his first season in Washington.  Gruden, 44, is one of the youngest coaches in the league; but keeping his star quarterback and newly acquired wide receiver happy will result in a successful future.  Outside of handling those two star personalities, you’ll also have veteran DeAngelo Hall and Santana Moss will just be the next Redskin in line to hit the Washington Post front page if things don’t improve soon.  Jackson’s been receiving negative media for apparent off-the-field actions as reports are coming out that the star receiver gang affiliations, which was far from the locker room mess were accustomed of hearing from him.  Yes, we know this is one of the most productive receivers in the game today; but, those are some the risks you’re facing with him as well.  A fresh start for "Action Jackson" is upon him and a chance to prove a lot of critics and analyst wrong of what they may have portrayed the 27 year old.  Personally, I feel Washington is great fit for the 27-year old receiver.  In only the first few days, Jackson has received a lot of support from clubbing with D.C rapper Wale, receiving a call from the star quarterback RGIII shortly after his release will hopefully make this transition a smooth one.  The city of Washington D.C and all of Redskins nation are back on their feet and chanting "hail to the Redskins."  I believe the Redskins will have their team intact by August and in December, we’ll see the Redskins return to the top of the NFC East.  On paper in lackluster and mediocre division, they will be heavily picked to win the NFC East.  And when the Skins renew their rivalry with the Philadelphia Eagles, there won’t be any "brotherly love" when the schedule is released and it reads @Philadelphia.