DeSean Jackson SELECTED BY: Philadelphia Eagles Round 2(18)

SI Grade 3.99 GRADING SYSTEM

BIOGRAPHY: Three-year starter who made an immediate impact upon his arrival at California. Junior-year receiving totals included 65/762/6 when he also averaged 10.8 yards on 12 punt returns with one touchdown. Struggled with a leg injury last season, which kept him on the sidelines for a game and a half. Sophomore-year receiving totals included 59/1060/9 with an 18.2-yard average on 25 punt returns and four touchdowns.

POSITIVES: Game-breaking receiver with home run speed. Quick off the line, immediately gets to top speed, and possesses the second gear. Easily makes the difficult catch downfield running at full speed and not afraid to go up in a crowd for the reception. Shows excellent focus, looks the pass into his hands, and makes the reception away from his frame. Plays with good balance and body control and gets vertical to grab the high pass. Effectively positions himself and uses his frame to protect the ball. Extends and offers the quarterback a nice target. Adjusts to the errant throw and makes the reception in stride. Elusive handling the ball and can run to daylight if given the slightest bit of open space. Possesses soft hands and plucks the ball from the air.

NEGATIVES: Lacks the big frame and loses out in battles. Must be more disciplined running routes, as he tends to float out of breaks. Durability has been an issue the past two years.

ANALYSIS: Jackson is a tremendous athlete with rare speed and the ability to impact games in a variety of ways. He strikes fear in opponents and his ability to beat defenders downfield is highly respected. Jackson must physically mature and improve his playing strength, yet he should produce in a variety of ways at the next level.