Watch: DeSean Jackson hosts first HBCU Mega Camp
Delaware State University made headlines this weekend by hosting its first-ever high school football mega camp. Led by NFL great and new HBCU head coach DeSean Jackson, the event brought more than 400 high school players to campus.
The goal: increase athlete visibility and build momentum for Delaware State's football program within the HBCU community.
Held at Alumni Stadium, the camp included drills, evaluations, and networking opportunities with college coaches from across the region. The strong turnout marked a major milestone for the Hornets. Still, questions remain about the long-term impact.
"This is our first-ever high school mega camp, and it's inspiring to see how many kids want to be part of this," DeSean Jackson told HBCU Gameday. "Anytime we get a chance to get back out here, get eyes on guys, and really evaluate their movement, speed, and competitiveness - that's a win."
Now in his first season at the helm, Jackson hopes events like this can revitalize Delaware State football.
The camp also helped rebuild recruiting pipelines that many high school athletes have lost access to due to the rise of the transfer portal.
"The high school level is getting overlooked right now," Jackson said. "That's why these camps are so important - for exposure and visibility."
He also emphasized the importance of community connections. "We're going to keep encouraging our staff and players to help close that gap between the community and alumni."
The event reflects a growing trend among HBCUs to invest in grassroots recruiting. Programs like Jackson State and South Carolina State have already drawn national attention. Delaware State is now working to join that movement in a meaningful way.
"Look - HBCUs are where it's at right now," Jackson said. "We want to continue to elevate that and help take it to another level."
Delaware State's high school mega camp sent a strong message. The next step is turning that energy into sustained success on the field - and within the broader HBCU landscape.
The post Watch: DeSean Jackson hosts first HBCU Mega Camp appeared first on HBCU Gameday.
Copyright HBCU Gameday 2012-2025
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Los Angeles Times
an hour ago
- Los Angeles Times
Rickea Jackson has career-high 30 points as Sparks get a Commissioner's Cup win over Las Vegas
LAS VEGAS — Rickea Jackson scored a career-high 30 points, Azura Stevens had 19 points and 10 rebounds in leading the Sparks to a 97-89 Commissioner's Cup win over the Aces in Las Vegas on Wednesday night. The Aces were without star center A'ja Wilson for the final 11 minutes of the game after she left with 1:17 left in the third quarter with an injury. She was accidentally hit in the face on Dearica Hamby's drive to the basket. Jackson went 11 of 17 from the field, including four of eight from three-point range, and four of five at the free-throw line to top her previous best of 25 points against Dallas last season. Hamby scored 19 points for the Sparks (4-7) to go with eight rebounds and seven assists. Kelsey Plum had 13 points and nine assists against her former team. Jackie Young tied her career high with 34 points and Chelsea Gray added 28 for Las Vegas (4-4), which has lost two straight games. Wilson was 2 of 12 from the field and 9 of 10 at the free-throw line to finish with 13 points, eight rebounds and five assists in 28 minutes. Young scored 14 straight Las Vegas points in the second quarter. Hamby, Stevens and Jackson all scored in double figures in the first half to help the Sparks build a 50-41 lead.
NBC Sports
3 hours ago
- NBC Sports
Detroit Tigers prized rookie Jackson Jobe to have season-ending Tommy John surgery
Although there's no clear timeline of when to expect Shohei Ohtani back on the mound, Eric Samulski explains why fantasy managers should stash the two-way superstar if he's available as a pitcher only in leagues. BALTIMORE — Detroit Tigers pitcher Jackson Jobe will undergo season-ending Tommy John surgery on his right elbow, the club announced Wednesday. Dr. Keith Meister, team physician and orthopedic consultant for the Texas Rangers, will perform the operation, which had not been scheduled yet. 'It's obviously really disappointing news,' Tigers general manager Jeff Greenberg said. 'Really feel for Jackson. Obviously everybody sees the talent, and he made a really positive impression to this team in his short time here. He's going to work through this. He's a very determined individual.' Jobe went 4-1 with a 4.22 ERA in 10 starts after making Detroit's opening-day roster. The 22-year-old rookie was placed on the 15-day injured list with a Grade 1 right flexor strain following his May 28 outing. 'As is standard process in our medical evaluation process, we sought additional evaluations,' Greenberg said. 'Through that evaluation process, a UCL injury was also discovered. From there, there were a series of conversations between Jackson, the doctors and the medical staff, and ultimately surgery was determined as the path.' Selected third overall in the 2021 amateur draft, Jobe was the Tigers' third-ranked prospect in 2024, according to The right-hander made two relief appearances for Detroit late last season, then two more in the American League playoffs. Detroit holds the best record in the AL at 44-25 following Wednesday night's 10-1 loss at Baltimore.
Miami Herald
5 hours ago
- Miami Herald
HBCU Football Player Jackson ‘Jacks' Bailey Dies at 22
PRAIRIE VIEW, Texas – The HBCU community is mourning the loss of Prairie View A&M University football player Jackson Bailey, also known as 'Jacks', who died at the age of 22. Though he did not appear in a game for the Panthers, his presence was deeply felt within the locker room and across the campus community, according to a statement released by the university's athletic department. Bailey, a defensive lineman, joined the Prairie View A&M University football team for the 2023–24 season after transferring from Louisiana-Monroe. He began his collegiate career at Arizona, where he redshirted. Originally from DeSoto, Texas, Bailey starred at Red Oak High School and earned all-state honors in Class 5A Division I as a senior. In his standout 2020 season, he posted 64 tackles, four interceptions, two defensive touchdowns, and three fumble recoveries. Bailey chose Prairie View A&M, the only HBCU he attended, to be closer to his family. A proud member of Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc. – Zeta Beta Chapter. Jackson Bailey was known for his brotherhood, positive energy, and deep sense of purpose. His football IQ, natural speed, and infectious personality earned him the respect of teammates and coaches alike. His favorite quote, "God got me," reflected a mindset that carried him through both life's challenges and triumphs. He dreamed of playing in the NFL or pursuing a career in physical therapy to help others heal through sports. Off the field, Bailey had a passion for cooking, music, and spending time with family, especially during the holidays. He also enjoyed playing video games and the piano, a lesser-known talent. Bailey often credited his mother, Debbie Bailey, as his greatest inspiration. He is also survived by his father, Bryon, and siblings Taylor and Kebron. "Though his time at PVAMU was brief, the impact he made will resonate for years to come," the university said. "We honor and remember Jackson 'Jacks' Bailey not only for his potential and promise but for the way he lived-with purpose, humor, humility, and heart." The post HBCU Football Player Jackson 'Jacks' Bailey Dies at 22 appeared first on HBCU Gameday. Copyright HBCU Gameday 2012-2025
