The Eagles on Thursday placed the franchise tag on wide receiver DeSean Jackson.
Jackson, a 2008 second-round pick out of Cal, who led Philadelphia with 961 yards receiving last season, was scheduled to become a free agent on March 13.
``We want DeSean to be an Eagle for the long haul and this is a step in the right direction to accomplish that,'' general manager Howie Roseman said. ``DeSean is a talented player and a proven playmaker in this league and we look forward to him continuing his career in Philadelphia.
``It's our understanding that he has the same desire. We will continue our efforts on getting a long-term deal done with him.''
Jackson made the Pro Bowl in 2009 and 2010, posting totals of 229 catches, 4,085 yards and 21 touchdowns along the way. Last year, like a lot of Eagles, was a disappointment for Jackson, who caught just four touchdowns as Philadelphia finished 8-8 and out of the NFC playoffs.
