DeSean Jackson responds to locker room assault allegations, Delaware State lawsuit

Following a lawsuit filed by former student-athlete Malachi Biggs against Delaware State, Hornets head football coach DeSean Jackson has responded with a statement on his Instagram.

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The statement reads, “I take the safety, well-being, and development of every student-athlete in the Delaware State University football program seriously. I have never fostered or encouraged hazing, bullying, or any violent environment, and that has never been the culture I have worked to build. Because this matter is the subject to pending litigation, I will not comment further. My focus has always been on creating a positive, respectful place for student athletes to train, compete, grow, and pursue their college dreams.”

Former Delaware State Hornets football player Malachi Biggs has filed a lawsuit against head coach DeSean Jackson and the university, alleging a harmful locker room environment and a serious assault. According to the filing obtained by HBCU Pulse on Thursday afternoon, Biggs claims he was attacked by former teammate Anthony Hebert following a dispute reportedly tied to an Instagram post. The lawsuit alleges that Hebert placed Biggs in a chokehold and refused to release him despite repeated attempts to “tap out,” ultimately causing Biggs to lose consciousness.

Biggs states he suffered significant injuries in the incident, including fractures to his jaw, a laceration to his chin that required surgical repair, damage to multiple teeth, and a torn ligament beneath his tongue.

Beyond the alleged assault, the lawsuit accuses members of the coaching staff—including Jackson, Clark, and Hicks—of fostering a culture that normalized aggressive behavior among players. It also claims that language tied to gang culture was used within the locker room and that players were encouraged to respond forcefully to perceived disrespect.

The filing further alleges that Hebert was not disciplined academically or athletically and returned to play just days after the incident. It also claims he later joined the program’s coaching staff after graduating. Biggs contends he has been unable to continue his education and alleges that certain details about Hebert were altered, potentially complicating legal accountability.

Biggs is being represented by the law firm Morgan & Morgan. Jackson was hired by Delaware State in December 2024 and led the team to an 8–4 record in his first season.

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