Philadelphia Eagles Opt to Use Franchise Tag on DeSean Jackson

The Philadelphia Eagles have decided not to let DeSean Jackson test the free-agent waters.

According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Eagles have used the franchise tag on their star wide receiver:

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Eagles place franchise tag on WR DeSean Jackson.

— Adam Schefter (@AdamSchefter) March 1, 2012"

The Eagles were widely expected to use their franchise tag on Jackson, but the move must come as a surprise for those who had figured the Eagles were done with Jackson after what they went through with him this past season.

As a whole, the 2011 season was not a success for Jackson. He ended up posting solid numbers, pulling down 58 receptions for 961 yards and four touchdowns, but the year was filled with drama between the star wideout and the Eagles front office. It started with a contract holdout, and Jackson's attitude got him in trouble on several occasions during the season.

Most notably, he was deactivated for a November game against the Arizona Cardinals for missing a team meeting.

Schefter reported last week that the Eagles would be open to trading Jackson after applying the franchise tag, but Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said on Thursday that the team has other plans.

Via ESPN.com, this is what Roseman said:

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"We want DeSean to be an Eagle for the long haul and this is a step in the right direction to accomplish that," Eagles general manager Howie Roseman said in a statement. "DeSean is a talented player and a proven playmaker in this league and we look forward to him continuing his career in Philadelphia. It's our understanding that he has the same desire. We will continue our efforts on getting a long-term deal done with him."

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The Eagles drafted Jackson in the second round of the 2009 draft. He has since been selected to two Pro Bowls.

Jackson stands to earn $9.4 million under the one-year tender, per Jeff McLane of the Philadelphia Inquirer.