In 2017, DeSean Jackson was signed by the Tampa Bay Buccaneers to form, on paper, one of the league’s most formidable 1-2 punches with Mike Evans. One year later, we’re not even sure if he’s going to be starting for Tampa.
The Buccaneers released a depth chart on Tuesday. On it, the receiver listed opposite Mike Evans will be Jackson OR Chris Godwin.
The Bucs' first depth chart of 2018 lists "DeSean Jackson or Chris Godwin" as the starter opposite Mike Evans. Coaches told us they consider Godwin a starter. This proves it. https://t.co/9uR7TvM8or pic.twitter.com/vIqjZrkEjj
— JennaLaineESPN (@JennaLaineESPN) September 4, 2018
It’s worth noting that the Miami Dolphins did the same thing at running back with Kenyan Drake and Frank Gore. But that felt more like Adam Gase continuing a joke from the beginning of the preseason.
This one has a little more life to it.
Jackson had one of the worst seasons of his career in 2017. He caught only 50 passes for 668 yards with three touchdowns. For comparison’s sake, he had only 56 receptions and four touchdown catches with the Washington Redskins in 2016, but also went for 1,005 yards.
At one point in 2017, Jackson even acknowledged that he was having a hard time connecting with quarterback Jameis Winston.
Godwin caught 34 passes for 525 yards with a touchdown as a rookie in 2017.
Even if Jackson ends up getting the starting spot, it’s safe to say that he’s in a rather precarious spot heading into 2018.