Eagles Sign DeSean Through 2016

Multiple reports have confirmed that the Philadelphia Eagles have signed wide receiver DeSean Jackson to a five-year, $51 million deal (extending the star receiver through the 2016 season). First reported by ESPN’s Adam Schefter, NBC10 has confirmed the deal (though full financial details have yet to be released).

Jackson, a second-round pick in the 2008 NFL Draft out of California, is a two-time Pro Bowler and had 58 receptions for 961 yards with four touchdowns during the 2011 season.

The Eagles had previously designated Jackson their franchise player, which carried a price tag around $9.5 million.

Eagles coach Andy Reid made the following statement on Wednesday regarding the signing:

We are thrilled to be able to keep one of the NFL's top playmakers in Philadelphia. DeSean is a game breaker, he has the speed and ability to score from anywhere on the field, and he has proven himself to be a big threat for our offense. Signing our own players was a big priority for us this offseason and DeSean was certainly high on our list. We are very excited about his future as an Eagle.

CSNPhilly's Eagles Insider Ray Didinger breaks down why signing Jackson now is a good move:

...the team chose to give Jackson a five-year contract, which means he won’t have to deal with any questions about his future during the season. He can just concentrate on playing football which should certainly help. And the Eagles got him for what is a fair price given the booming market for wide receivers.

It is good news all around and, who knows, maybe by getting this deal worked out with Drew Rosenhaus, it will create such a feeling of good will that the Eagles and Drew can get a new contract done for LeSean McCoy sometime soon.