As of Tuesday, DeSean Jackson was in Washington on his second day visiting the Redskins. The team put a visit on the schedule almost immediately after the Philadelphia Eagles announced they were parting ways with their leading wide receiver. There are conflicting reports as to how committed the Redskins are to signing Jackson, leaving hope to other teams that they stand a shot at getting him. One person not giving up hope, Matt Schaub.
The Oakland Raiders need offensive help. After signing two running backs on the brink of retirement, the team will need to make a splash in the passing game in order to get the Raiders moving. The first move was a trade for veteran quarterback Schaub. Now, he hopes the next move is signing Jackson.
"I'd love to see (DeSean Jackson) out there," Schaub said, via Sirius XM Radio. "He's a phenomenal talent, a great player. The times I've been around him, a great guy. I think he can add a lot to any team, especially ours in Oakland and really think he can be a big help to what we're trying to build and I'd love to have him at my disposal as a receiver."
Schaub essentially has one year to prove he can still be a starting quarterback in the NFL. He wants all the offensive firepower he can get. Right now, the Raiders have the most salary cap space of anyone to sign Jackson to a contract he most desires. After requesting a pay raise with the Eagles, Jackson is not going to accept some one-year contract because he feels desperate.
If the Raiders are going to sign Jackson, they most hope that his meeting with the Redskins ends without a contract offer. The Washington Post reports the Jackson deal is essentially done if the wide receiver is will to take less money. Dan Snyder is sold on Jackson despite his off-the-field concerns and Robert Griffin III would love another top receiver to throw to.
Another team keeping their fingers crossed that Jackson does not sign to Washington is the Carolina Panthers. The team has been in the mix for several top wide receivers during the free agency period and missed out on everyone. Jackson would certainly be the big name they have been searching for. Ron Rivera is certainly interested if he is still available.
"We'd be interested," Rivera said, USAToday.com. "He's an intriguing player and we'll take a look at him. I just got word and this is surprising to hear. He's an explosive player who has great vertical speed and is strong going to the ball."
