DeSean Jackson lands reality show deal with BET

In a somewhat surprising move Thursday night, BET announced at its upfront presentation that Washington wide receiver DeSean Jackson will be part of a new reality show called “Home Team.” According to Variety, the program will be focused on the women in his life who keep things running smoothly:

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“DeSean Jackson is at the top of his game as one of the most talked about and watched players in the NFL today. That means eyes are always on him — waiting for him to score touchdowns and waiting for him to drop the ball off the field. Even though he has the money and the fame, DeSean’s life is actually run by a core group of women including his “momager” Gayle, his sister and assistant A’Dreea, his publicist Denise and his new girlfriend, Kayla. Produced by Rogue Atlas Productions in association with Lionsgate Television. Eli Frankel, Ryan Holcomb, Elise Duran, Desean Jackson and Byron Jackson serve as executive producers. Jay Fragus and Lawrence Bell serve as co-executive producers.”

Of course, Jackson’s off-field life has been the source of scrutiny before, but this is a different type of lens. His friendships with gang members have been criticized and his new girlfriend is often described as an Instagram model. He’s also going to be part of a new biopic about Tupac.

If you’re the kind of person that thinks NFL players should do nothing but eat, drink and breathe football, this news is problematic. But if you’re a fan of athletes being complete people and looking to diversify their entertainment careers, it’s a good day. Either way, Jackson is showing that his star power will probably not wane even after he leaves the gridiron.