DOVER, DELAWARE – A lawsuit filed in Delaware Superior Court alleges that DeSean Jackson, head football coach at Delaware State University, cultivated a locker room environment that included a "gang-associated mentality" and contributed to a violent assault on a player. The suit, filed by former player Malachi Biggs, names Jackson, the university, assistant coach Travis Clark, director of football operations Jane Hicks, and player Anthony Hebert as defendants.
Biggs claims Jackson and his staff "encouraged crimes, assaults, harassment, hazing, altercations" and that Jackson's philosophy, which "relied heavily upon the use of gang-associated slang and gang-associated mentality," played a role in the incident.
The alleged assault occurred in the locker room, where Biggs claims Hebert confronted him and placed him in a chokehold, causing him to lose consciousness and fall. Biggs sustained serious injuries, including multiple facial fractures, a cut requiring surgery, and irreparable dental damage. The lawsuit states that Hebert was not disciplined and participated in a football game days later. Biggs has not returned to Delaware State and requires ongoing medical attention.
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A spokesperson for Delaware State University stated that the institution does not comment on pending litigation. Jackson, a former NFL Pro Bowl receiver, has denied fostering an unsafe environment, pushing back against the allegations in a statement posted to social media.
Jackson took over the Delaware State Hornets football program in December, leading them to an 8-4 record in his first season. The lawsuit was filed on Thursday, April 23, 2026.
