No new contract, no problem for DeSean

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ST. LOUIS -- Just because he doesnt have a new contract doesnt mean DeSean Jackson isnt going to play like one of the NFLs highest-paid receivers.

Jackson, the NFLs most underpaid player, opened the 2011 season with his 12th career 100-yard game in the Eagles 31-13 win over the Rams Sunday at the Edward Jones Dome. Jackson caught six passes for 102 yards and a touchdown.

Jackson, who hasnt spoken to the media in Philly for a couple weeks, conceded after the game that its been difficult focusing solely on football while earning the NFL minimum for fourth-year players600,000going into the final year of his rookie contract.

Sometimes, its frustrating, but I really try not to worry about it too much, Jackson said. Im just going to go out there and be the best I can, and controlling what I can control is obviously the best thing I can do.

Really try to stay away from all the negative things and just stay as positive as I can. I know something will happen.

Jackson, who held out of the start of training camp, did drop a sure 84-yard touchdown on a deep ball from Michael Vick down the left sideline just before halftime. But other than that, he played just like youd expect one of the NFLs top receivers to play.

A lot of stud wide receivers would be whining, complaining and creating distractions in Jacksons situation.

He hasnt.

I think that speaks for the heart and determination that I have to play this game regardless of off-the-field issues, Jackson said. Im here to work, Im here to play football and do it at a high level, and any time Im able to perform and help this team win, everything else speaks for itself.

Even though hes only in his fourth season, Jackson already ranks eighth in Eagles franchise history with 12 career 100-yard games. One more will move him into fourth place.

More importantly, the Eagles have now won nine straight games when Jackson surpasses 100 receiving yards.

I actually didnt know about that stat, I appreciate you telling me that, Jackson said. Every time Im able to go out there and do it, we get the W, Ill take that.

The only thing Jackson was upset about after the game was his failure to catch Vicks bomb just before halftime and record his third career TD reception of 80 yards or more.

It was kind of frustrating, he said. Ball got up on me real quick, and I couldnt get my hands turned over. Thats the kind of play you look at on film and say, You cant have too many of them.
E-mail Reuben Frank at rfrank@comcastsportsnet.com

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