Delaware State finalizing deal to hire DeSean Jackson as head coach

Former Philadelphia Eagles star wide receiver DeSean Jackson and Delaware State are finalizing an agreement for him to become the program's next head coach, sources told ESPN's Pete Thamel on Thursday.

Jackson did an on-campus interview in recent days, and the sides are expected to come together to complete the deal in the near future. According to a source, it has always been a dream of Jackson's to coach at a historically Black college or university (HBCU). That dream could be a reality in the near future.

The 38-year-old would replace Lee Hull, who was dismissed earlier this month after two disappointing seasons, including a 1-11 showing this year.

The news was first reported by Victory Formation Media.

Jackson, who officially retired as a member of the Eagles after the 2023 season, made the Pro Bowl in three of his eight seasons with the team. He became the first player in NFL history to earn Pro Bowl honors at two positions -- kick returner and wide receiver. He played 15 years overall and had stints with the Los Angeles Rams, Washington,  Tampa Bay,  Baltimore and  Las Vegas, but he is best known for the six-year run in Philadelphia at the start of his pro career.

In 95 career games with the Eagles, he ranks third all time in receiving yards (6,512), sixth in receptions (379) and ninth in receiving touchdowns (35). As a punt returner, he finished second in punt returns (132), third in punt return yards (1,296) and is tied for the team's all-time lead in punt return touchdowns with four.

Information from The Associated Press was used in this report.