DeSean Jackson, Delaware State Sued Over Locker Room Attack

A lawsuit has been filed against Delaware State University and its head football coach, former NFL star DeSean Jackson, stemming from a severe locker room assault. Former player Malachi Biggs alleges he suffered significant injuries during an altercation last November, which he claims was a result of inadequate supervision and discipline by the university and its staff.

Allegations of Assault and Negligence

The lawsuit, filed in Delaware Superior Court on April 23rd, names Jackson, assistant coach Travis Clark, director of football operations Jane Hicks, and teammate Anthony Hebert as defendants. Biggs claims that Hebert placed him in a chokehold, causing him to lose consciousness before being dropped face-first onto the ground. The lawsuit states that Hebert ignored Biggs’ pleas to be released, and the alleged motive for the attack was an Instagram post.

Biggs alleges that Delaware State University failed to properly supervise its players and neglected to investigate the incident or implement disciplinary measures. His attorneys from Morgan & Morgan, John Morgan and Georgia Pham, stated, “Our lawsuit alleges that the Delaware State University and its staff failed in their responsibility to adequately supervise these student athletes and failed to properly discipline violent behaviors.”

Devastating Injuries and Legal Claims

Biggs has not returned to the team since the incident, reporting “severe and permanent injuries to his head, face, mouth, tongue, and teeth.” The lawsuit details multiple jaw fractures, a deep chin laceration requiring surgery, and irreparable damage to at least a dozen teeth. He has undergone surgery for facial fractures and requires ongoing medical care.

The attorneys further stated, “By dismissing violent assaults as mere ‘horseplay,’ the University and coach DeSean Jackson allegedly fostered a toxic culture of bullying and hazing in the locker room. Our client came to this University to play the game he loved. Instead, he’s leaving with catastrophic injuries that may be career-ending and have permanently derailed his life.”

Jackson’s Response and University’s Culture

DeSean Jackson responded to the lawsuit on his social media, asserting, “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.” He declined further comment due to the pending litigation, emphasizing his focus on creating a positive and respectful environment for his athletes.