5 Best Philadelphia Eagles rookie seasons from 2000-2009

The Eagles found an all-timer in DeSean Jackson who is STILL one of the greatest deep threats we have ever seen.

In the 2008 NFL Draft, Philly was looking for a dynamic young wideout who could become their number-one wide receiver for years to come. The Birds found that wideout during the second round by selecting DeSean Jackson out of the University of California.

Jackson became the first rookie wide receiver to start on an opening day during the Andy Reid era, and he did not disappoint. The speedster turned in a six-reception performance that resulted in 106 yards that aided a 38-3 win versus the Rams. He also returned eight punts for 97 yards in his successful debut for good measure.

DeSean was the eighth rookie wide receiver since the AFL-NFL merger to haul in 100 yards receiving in his first NFL game.

The Cal alum ended his first season with 912 yards receiving with two touchdowns. He also earned 440 punt return yards with one touchdown on 50 punt returns.

Jackson was the Eagles’ leading receiver in 2008. His 912 yards broke Keith Jackson’s rookie record of 869 receiving yards, and DeSean’s mark stood as the franchise’s best by a first-year player until some guy named DeVonta Smith came along.

DeSean also finished with the second-most receiving yards by a rookie that season. Only Eddie Royal had more as he finished with 980 as a member of the Denver Broncos.