After MEAC title push, DeSean Jackson reloads with transfer-heavy NSD class

DeSean Jackson isn’t resting on an 8-win season.

The second-year coach is loading up the Delaware State roster with transfers to fill needs and elevate the program to a new level.

On National Signing Day, DSU officially inked 25 new players, including 18 transfers and seven high school recruits.

Among the most notable additions is former William & Mary quarterback Noah Brannock, the lone signal-caller in the class.

Brannock played in eight games as a red-shirt sophomore in 2025, completing 14 of 27 passes for 188 yards with one interception and gaining 36 yards on 16 carries with a TD.

Louisville transfer Shaun Boykins Jr., a running back who was rated among Kentucky’s top high school prospects two years ago, joins the program. Boykins had 37 carries for 190 yards and a touchdown and caught one pass in nine games for Louisville last season.

Three transfers arrive from Division II Virginia State and a trio from California, adding more depth to Jackson’s roster.

What was Jackson and the Hornets coaching staff looking for in the latest crop of recruits after losing the likes of running backs Marquis Gillis to Arizona State, James Jones to New Mexico State, and linebacker Brian Bates to Sam Houston?

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Photo: University of Louisville

Competition.

“Bringing in seven new players on National Signing Day shows the direction we’re going—young men with talent, passion, and a commitment to grow,” Jackson said in a statement.

“This class isn’t just about counting numbers; it’s about building culture, fostering competition, and creating opportunities. I told these guys from the moment they stepped on campus that when you put in the work and believe in each other, great things happen.”

It remains to be seen whether National Signing Day will be a springboard to another run toward the top of the MEAC standings. But Jackson has already determined that strength in numbers will be the plan of attack in 2026.

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