NFL Draft Countdown: Greatest 49th overall pick of all-time
There are just 49 days until the 2018 NFL Draft, and we look at the best 49th overall pick in NFL Draft history, DeSean Jackson
Few players can catch DeSean Jackson on the field or on the list of greatest 49th overall picks in the NFL Draft. One of the fastest playmakers in recent memory, Jackson came out of Cal as a two-dimensional player with a chip on his shoulder.
Growing up with a father who pushed him through rigorous training, Jackson excelled in his three years with the Bears. Playing in 36 games he amassed 162 receptions, 2,423 receiving yards, and 22 receiving touchdowns. Cal also used him as a running back and most notably a return specialist. Jackson returned six punts for touchdowns in college, four of which came as a sophomore.
Coming into the NFL with some off the field concerns and a slight 170 pound frame, Jackson fell to the second round in 2008 and was the seventh receiver taken in a draft with no first round pass catchers. Donnie Avery, Devin Thomas, Jordy Nelson, James Hardy, Eddie Royal, and Jerome Simpson were drafted before Philadelphia selected Jackson 49th overall.
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In 2008, 35 wide receivers would be drafted, including 10 in the second round. Of those 35 receivers, only Jackson and Nelson have made the Pro Bowl as a receiver. New England Patriots special teamer Matt Slater has also made the Pro Bowl, but not as a receiver.
Working under the tutelage of Andy Reid Jackson became an instant star despite working with eight different quarterbacks in his six years with Philadelphia. Five of his six seasons included at least 1,000 yards of offense, and in his second year he led the NFL with two punt return touchdowns and 15.2 yards per return.
In 2010, he capped off one of the greatest comebacks in NFL history with his only punt return touchdown of the season.
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A tedious relationship with head coach Chip Kelly would lead Jackson to Washington and Tampa Bay. Between Philadelphia, Washington, and Tampa Bay Jackson has 11,231 all-purpose yards, fifth among active wide receivers.