Washington Redskins begin OTAs, DeSean Jackson on vacation at a private villa

The Washington Redskins began organized team activities (OTAs) on Monday, which is “voluntary” for all players. And DeSean Jackson knows the difference between mandatory and voluntary.

As Redskins players began working under first-year coach Jay Gruden, Jackson was enjoying himself at a private villa. In fact, Jackson posted a picture of himself on Instagram:

However, it appears Jackson is not playing hooky. This was a preplanned trip.

The NFL allows first-year coaches to start OTAs two weeks before other teams. Philadelphia’s OTAs will begin on April 21, and Jackson probably made his travel plans with the expectation he would be ready for Eagles practice. Besides, Jackson is only missing Phase One of OTAs, which is two weeks of strength and conditioning and physical rehabilitation only.

That is why Jackson’s absence appears excused.

It is hard to blame Jackson for taking some time to unwind.

Jackson spent the past few months hearing trade rumors. He was accused of having gang affiliations prior to his release from the Philadelphia Eagles. Jackson eventually rebounded and signed with Washington. The man definitely deserves to sit on a beach with the beverage of his choice after this offseason.

As long as Jackson shows up during the regular season, and possibly the postseason, nobody will care about his current getaway.

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Anwar S Richardson

is a writer for Shutdown Corner on Yahoo Sports. Have a tip? Email him at NFLAnwar@yahoo.com or follow him on Twitter! Follow @AnwarRichardson