Player Preview: DeSean Jackson

DeSean Jackson is many things to fans. A thug, a play-maker, a star, and to Washington Redskins fans he’s all ours. Washington opened their arms to the troubled wide receiver, and it’s time to see if the investment will pay off for the Redskins. Coming off of a 3-13 season, Washington splurged in the off season with the key acquisition being Jackson. Despite concerns over his gang related activities, Jackson knows how to get it done on the field and that’s something the team desperately needs opposite wide out Pierre Garcon.

Will he put up similar numbers to his career year in 2013? It’s simply too tough to tell, but I would fully expect him not to exceed the 82 catch, 1,332 yard marks. With weapons all over the offense, it may be difficult for Jackson to receive the touches necessary to achieve those figures. More importantly, the Redskins need Jackson to remain patient and out of headlines throughout the season if they hope to maintain locker-room stability, a thing that destroyed the team a year ago.

Jackson, who’s a California Berkley graduate, has the mental capacity to control his emotions and help Washington finish atop the NFC East. In his first year with the team, I expect Jackson to break the 1,000 yard barrier and to dominate the division like he did in Philadelphia. If Jackson can accomplish these goals, the team will be a viable candidate to be the top offense in the entire National Football League.