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It’s Bigger Than Me and Michael Vick In the much-anticipated HBCU Battle of Legends, DeSean Jackson was facing off against his longtime teammate and friend, Michael Vick. These two entered the game as marquee names and two NFL icons whose resumes speak for themselves. But for Jackson, the real story wasn’t about his own legacy or Vick’s comeback. It was about something far greater: the team, the culture, and the message behind the game. “I said it all week, man—it’s bigger than me and Michael Vick,” Jackson stated humbly. “Obviously, it’s the HBCU Legendary Game, but it’s bigger than us.” For Jackson, the “bigger than us” message echoes the spirit of the entire event. Throughout the arena, thousands of people celebrating HBCU football heritage, mentoring young players, and showing that the bond of team triumphs over the individual fame. Inside Meaning of “It’s Written” Prior to kickoff, Jackson told his players something he says often: ‘it’s written.’ To him, that phrase captures belief and purpose, hard work, and faith aligning for moments like these. “I say this all the time to our players, man—’it’s written,’” Jackson said. “We talk about destiny, about being prepared when your time comes. That’s what this game is about. It’s about writing your own story but doing it together.” Image Courtesy of RIley Lorenz Full Circle Moment for the Former Eagles Both Jackson and Vick have left cemented legacies in this Philadelphia Eagles uniform. However, they’re embracing a new chapter. The transition from being elite players to leading from the sidelines was a tough transition. Nonetheless, he reflected on how the move from player to coach isn’t always straightforward, but he believes it’s a path more athletes should consider moving forward. “Every person that plays at a high level can’t necessarily coach at a high level,” Jackson admitted. “But I really hope people take a second look at players—athletes who’ve been there—and give them a chance.” He added that many former players should explore coaching once they retire. “To be able to have your own university, your own organization to be ran—it’s a cool thing, man. To have your finger on it, to help shape young guys—it’s special,” he continued. The Challenge of Leading Now, a head coach, Jackson acknowledges that the job comes with pressure, but also purpose. “I tell my players all the time, man, I wish you guys could see what it feels like to be a head coach,” he said with a laugh. “It’s a lot of stress—I got a few gray hairs—but it’s fun, too.” Both Jackson and Vick, the HBCU Battle of the Legends was more than a game. In fact, it was a statement about leadership, legacy, and lifting the community. This only goes to show that while they’re playing days have concluded, they still impact the game of football and continue to help it grow. Image Courtesy of Riley Lorenz
