RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI RAV KCC ATL HOU DEN NWE LVR CRD MIN SDG CLE CIN LV BOS TB STL NO WSH ARI PHO PIT CAR JAC MIA CHI CLV CHR W 40x40 ARZ LA TBB RAI

Draft Information by: Years, Teams, Positions

DeSean Jackson (California) - 2008 NFL Draft Pick #49 by PHI

What The Experts Thought Before The Draft

Pre-Draft Analysis for DeSean Jackson (2008 NFL Draft)

Player Profile:
  • Name: DeSean Jackson
  • College: University of California, Berkeley
  • Position: Wide Receiver
  • Height: 5'10"
  • Weight: 178 lbs
Strengths:
  • Exceptional speed and acceleration, making him a deep threat.
  • Agility and quickness allow for effective route running and separation from defenders.
  • Strong hands and ability to catch the ball in traffic.
  • Experience as a return specialist, adding value in the kick return game.
  • Proven track record of making big plays in college, often capable of turning short passes into long gains.
Weaknesses:
  • Smaller frame may lead to durability concerns at the NFL level.
  • Needs to improve physicality and strength to compete against more aggressive NFL defenses.
  • Occasional issues with concentration drops, particularly in contested situations.
Overall Assessment:

DeSean Jackson was highly regarded as one of the top wide receiver prospects in the 2008 NFL Draft. His combination of speed, agility, and playmaking ability made him an attractive option for teams looking to add a dynamic weapon to their offense. While his size was a concern for some scouts, his potential to stretch the field and contribute as a returner outweighed those risks. Teams were eager to see how he would translate his college success to the professional level.

Projected Draft Position:

DeSean Jackson was projected to be selected in the early to mid-second round of the draft, with some teams considering him as a late first-round pick depending on their need for a receiver.