The Philadelphia Eagles finally broke their silence on Tuesday, releasing a statement on their decision to release DeSean Jackson several weeks ago.

According to the team, the release of the Pro Bowl wide receiver was purely a football decision and not as an act to get rid of a player linked to a Californian gang group.

"Chip and his people were incredibly clear that for us to get better, we needed to take a step back and reconfigure the wide receiver position," Lurie said, according to the team's website, according to ESPN.

"He knows what he wants, and he knows how to get there," Lurie said. "I really believe it's an organization that absolutely supports the direction we're going, and that's the best way to be. Everyone is in it together, and I think Chip is always going to base things not just on statistics but how you're going to perform and how you are going to perform in the playoffs."

The 27-year old Jackson recorded 82 receptions for 1,332 yards and nine touchdowns last season with the Eagles. However, head coach Chip Kelly believed Jackson is not a good fit for the team.

Jackson signed a three-year, $24 million deal with the Washington Redskins , days after his release.