Daily Madden: Are The 49ers Weighing DeSean Jackson's Baggage?
SAN FRANCISCO (KCBS) - The 49ers and Patriots have reportedly inquired about the possibility of trading for star wide receiver DeSean Jackson.
"He is an intriguing possibility," John Madden told the KCBS Radio morning crew, noting the former Cal star's contract with the Eagles calls for a $10.5 million salary this season.
"It's a lot of money. He does bring a little baggage with him. And I don't know with the 49ers and their culture, I don't know if they would go in that direction."
There are indications the Eagles may be willing to part with Jackson, known for his sometimes combative personality.
"If a guy is a great player, (it's) a little baggage," Madden said.
Jackson caught 82 catches for 1,300 yards and nine touchdowns last season.
"If a guy is an average player, he has more baggage. If a guy is a bad player, he has way too much baggage for me to take... The hypocrisy of it is that the better the player, the more that you will live with. As the player goes down hill, then you will live with less. There used to be a saying, you know, among high school coaches, that this player is so good, he's one you save the bus for... In other words, we're leaving at three o'clock sharp, unless this guy's not there. Then (have the) bus driver check the tires, check this, check that, until the guy gets there."
Madden said there's no question about Jackson's ability.
"DeSean Jackson can play, and I like him. To me, he's a good guy, he's a real exciting player, he's an explosive player." (6:40)
Listen to the John Madden segment live weekday mornings at 8:15 on KCBS All News 740 AM/106.9 FM.