Delaware State University has officially hired DeSean Jackson as its next head football coach.
He replaces Lee Hull, who was fired after two seasons at DSU. The Hornets were 2-21 under Hull including 0-10 in the MEAC.
This will be Jackson’s first-ever coaching job at any level.
The Jackson hire is the first by incoming Athletic Director Tony Tucker.
“DeSean Jackson is a perfect fit for our institution – incredibly competitive, optimistic about the prospects for our collective future, and focused on the fundamentals of the institution: STUDENTS FIRST,” said Tucker in a statement announcing Jackson's hire.
Jackson joins former Philadelphia Eagle teammate Michael Vick as a head football coach in the Mid-Eastern Athletic Conferende (MEAC). Vick was formally named head coach at Norfolk State earlier this week.
Jackson played 15 years in the NFL with six different teams including the Eagles – where he spent 8 years.
Jackson also played in Washington, Tampa, Los Angeles, Las Vegas, and Baltimore. His last season was in 2022.
He was a three-time Pro-Bowler – all with the Eagles.
“HBCUs have much to be proud of in creating a more representative America. But that story is not simply a historical one. It continues to be written and includes the elevation of HBCU scholars and scholar athletes in every field of human endeavor,” said Jackson. “The opportunity for me to help write another chapter here at DSU is a once-in-a-lifetime moment consistent with my journey as a young boy finding his way to manhood through mentorship, accountability, achievement, and discipline,” Jackson continued. “If we build that kind of culture at Delaware State University, we will attract the right talent and radically change the trajectory of this program. I cannot wait to get started.”
His first game on the sidelines will be at the University of Delaware on August 28, 2025. That will also be UD's debut as an FBS program in Conference USA. Jackson's first home game is scheduled to be September 6, 2025 vs UAlbany.
Jackson's former coach with the Eagles, Andy Reid is very supportive of him.
“DeSean is like a son to me – a fierce competitor on the field, without rival, and a quality leader off of it,” said Reid. “I could not be more supportive of his desire to coach Division I football and would stake my career on his success at Delaware State University. We are bound at the hip and are forever family. I cannot wait to see where he takes the University and where the University takes him. This is a win-win for everyone, particularly the young men that get to learn from him and the incredible staff he will assemble – many football aficionados who have been with him since the very beginning.”
Jackson takes over at DSU at time when the University has renewed its commitment to athletics.
DSU has used gifts from the State of Delaware and former scholar-athlete Steve Ewing to upgrade Alumni Stadium with the centerpiece of the effort being an indoor training facility for all scholar-athletes at DSU.
While Jackson has an indirect connection to Delaware State University by playing in three cities in its recruiting area - Philadelphia, Washington, and Baltimore - he also has a direct connection to the University.
His uncle is Delaware State University alumnus John Taylor - who is a three-time Super Bowl champion with the San Francisco 49ers and a 2019 Black Collegiate Hall of Fame inductee.
“Having played football for many different coaches throughout my career, each one has added a unique dynamic to my game. I’m excited to see the new direction Coach Jackson will take the team – his vision and leadership are sure to bring fresh energy and opportunities for growth,” said Taylor.
The Jackson hire is another step forward for the HBCU which has expanded its outreach in Dover, and built new buildings on its main campus with more on the horizon during DSU President Tony Allen's tenure.
“We no longer dream big dreams. We are in execution mode, which means having the right vision, the right talent, and a set of inspirational leaders who can see the road ahead for a university whose time has come. DeSean will be one of those leaders throughout our institution,” said Allen.
Victory Formation Media was the first to report DSU hiring Jackson.
