The 2011 season was supposed to be the year that DeSean Jackson proved his worth. After he proclaimed that he had outplayed his rookie contract, many expected that Jackson would go above and beyond his totals from 2010 (1,056 yards, 6 receiving Touchdowns).
He did a complete 180.
The Cal-Berkely alum had his worst numbers since his rookie year, with his receiving total (961 yards), and Touchdowns (4 receiving TDs). In an all important contract year, he certainly did not prove that he was worthy of the 5 year, $51 million deal he was eventually given.
In an interview with ESPN's Lisa Salters, Jackson explained the decline in production: he was afraid of getting hurt before signing a big contract.
"I let it get to me, even though I tried not to let it. I was trying to protect myself from getting hurt — now I'm just giving it all."
With the contract bonanza behind him, it's time for him to step up in 2012.
Jake Pavorsky Is A Contributor for Eagledelphia. You can follow him on Twitter @JakePavorsky.
