Philadelphia Eagles Place Franchise Tag on DeSean Jackson

"We want DeSean to be an Eagle for the long haul and this is a step in the right direction to accomplish that. We will continue our efforts on getting a long-term deal done with him."

Before last season, Jackson groused about his contract situation and then went out and had the fewest yards from scrimmage of his career, while also reducing his role as a punt returner. It seemed to come to a head after the Seattle game, where DeSean Jackson was criticized on the broadcast of that Thursday night game for his effort.

Obviously, the Eagles did not want to lose Jackson without getting any compensation, but the tag comes with risk. If it is just a move toward a long term deal, as Roseman suggests, then it is fine. How will Jackson do if he is franchised, though, when he has been wanting a long term deal? The next few months will show whether Roseman’s statements are posturing toward a trade, or really do reflect that the organization is committed to getting something done, and all the drama of training camp 2011 will be behind the Eagles and their mercurial receiver.

[photo via US Presswire]