DSU Head Football Coach DeSean Jackson and brother Byron Jackson host documentary screening with Biggs Museum of American Art at Schwartz Center for the Arts
Delaware State University head football coach and former NFL star DeSean Jackson joined his brother, filmmaker Byron Jackson, at the The Schwartz Center for the Arts for a special community screening of “Go Deep: The DeSean Jackson Story,” a new documentary that offers a personal look at his life, family and journey to professional football.
Held Wednesday, Oct. 7, as part of DSU’s Homecoming festivities, the event was presented in partnership with Biggs Museum of American Art. Attendees watched selected scenes from the documentary, now streaming on Amazon Prime Video, and heard from the brothers about the experiences behind the film and the importance of inspiring the next generation.
The documentary is the result of decades of work by Byron, who spent much of his life recording his younger brother’s journey, beginning long before DeSean became a household name in professional football.
A central figure in the documentary is the brothers’ father, Bill Jackson, who was deeply involved in DeSean’s athletic development. Bill died in 2009 after battling pancreatic cancer. Through Byron’s recordings, the film preserves moments of their father’s involvement in the family and the lasting influence he had on his sons.
The documentary, directed by Mandon Lovett, combines Byron’s extensive collection of family footage with a closer examination of the experiences that shaped DeSean’s career. Rather than focusing exclusively on his accomplishments in football, the film explores the sacrifices, difficult decisions and personal relationships behind his success.
During the Homecoming screening, DeSean and Byron discussed the documentary and reflected on their family’s journey. The conversation was moderated by Loren LoRosa, a DSU alum and senior news producer at “The Breakfast Club” and founder of Brown Girl Grinding.
Speaking with attendees, Jackson said he hopes the documentary encourages young people to follow their own dreams rather than the paths others may choose for them. He emphasized the importance of helping young people to “find their vision and find their passion,” adding, “if you dedicate your life to it, anything is possible.”
The discussion also touched on DeSean’s transition from professional football to coaching and the connection he has developed with Delaware State University.
His time at the University has given him a greater appreciation for the community and its commitment to students.
“At Delaware State, I can feel the love and passion for sports and academics,” Jackson said.
He explained that his responsibility as head coach extends beyond winning football games and includes helping student-athletes grow and succeed.
“I think it’s all about the players, it’s all about the students here in Delaware,” Jackson said.
LoRosa also asked Jackson about DSU’s athletics transformation and what he hoped student-athletes would remember about this period in the University’s history. “I think it’s deserving,” Jackson said.
He went on to discuss the challenges he encountered when he first arrived at the University, particularly the condition of athletic facilities and the resources available to student-athletes. Jackson compared DSU’s facilities with those at other colleges and emphasized the need for improvements that would provide Hornet student-athletes with opportunities and resources comparable to those at other institutions.
Jackson also expressed optimism about the University’s progress, including improvements to its facilities and continued institutional growth. “I think we’re moving in the right direction,” Jackson said.
Through personal footage and reflections from the Jackson brothers, the screening highlighted the importance of family, perseverance and pursuing one’s own path, themes DeSean hopes will resonate with young people long after they watch the film.
“Go Deep: The DeSean Jackson Story” is now streaming on Amazon Prime Video.