DeSean Jackson was in and out of the locker room after the game on Sunday. I don’t think he talked to anybody and it wasn’t an accident.
You and I know he wasn’t thrilled about catching only one pass for one yard. Prior to yesterday, Jackson had scored on a long play in each of the previous games.
Rookie wide receiver Jeremy Maclin had a breakout game with six catches for 142 yards and two touchdowns while Jackson was rarely thrown to.
It was understandable that Jackson wasn’t a happy camper after the game, but he’s got to manage the situation properly and Andy Reid and Donovan McNabb should sit him down and talk to him.
Maclin’s success will open things up for Jackson in the future. The Birds will aslo be able to put DJax in motion and get him in the right match-up.
McNabb and Reid should tell Jackson privately and publicly that he’s the number one receiver in their offense. They should tell him that he’ll try to get the ball to him if he can.
McNabb should throw him a bone during the new conferences every time he gets the chance. Brag about him and talk about how good he is. Play the game with youngster.
In due time, he’s going to have to do the same thing with Maclin.
They both are going to want the ball, but that is a good problem.
Yesterday Maclin was being single-covered by an overmatched cornerback.
In addition the Eagles defense let the Bucs control the clock and the ball.
Jackson also had one catch erased by a phantom offensive interference call.
DeSean and his teammates can’t let this get him out of his focus. They need him to expect to be the man every time he lines up.
I think Jasaon Avant is a key learder among the receivers who needs to talk to Jackson, as well fullback Leonard Weaver, who has taken a leadership role on the team.
