Jaxon Smith-Njigba Shines as Sam Darnold Stumbles in Seahawks’ Offensive Showdown
The Seattle Seahawks entered their matchup against the Tennessee Titans boasting one of the NFL’s most formidable offenses. Sam Darnold has played a crucial role in that narrative, crafting an early-season MVP case that, while it has lost some steam, still reflects his impressive performance. However, the latest outing in Tennessee revealed a distinct shift in the dynamics of the Seahawks’ attack.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Steals the Spotlight
Typically, Darnold and rookie sensation Jaxon Smith-Njigba form a potent duo, but in this game, it was Smith-Njigba who took center stage. With a staggering 91.9 grade from Pro Football Focus (PFF), he showcased his ability to command the offense and make impactful plays. In stark contrast, Darnold’s performance faltered, earning a mere 60.3 grade. The disparity in their efforts highlighted a growing reality: this is increasingly becoming the Jaxon Smith-Njigba show.
Kenneth Walker’s Supportive Role
While Smith-Njigba’s brilliance was undeniable, he wasn’t alone on the field. Kenneth Walker added to the offensive momentum with his own impressive performance, finishing with an 85.5 grade. The duo displayed a synergy that was key in leading the Seahawks to victory, proving that they can carry the team when needed. However, the rest of the offense struggled to find its rhythm; aside from Smith-Njigba and Walker, only one other offensive player managed a grade above 70.4.
Offensive Line Woes
The Seahawks’ offensive line faced significant challenges during the game. Anthony Bradford’s 63.3 grade stood as the highest mark for the unit, which is telling of their struggles. Grey Zabel, Charles Cross, and Olusegun Oluwatimi all had disappointing outings, with Zabel’s performance—leading the group with a lackluster 57.7 grade—drawing particular scrutiny. PFF has consistently rated Zabel poorly this season, and this game was no exception.
As the Seahawks navigate the remainder of the season, the contrast between Smith-Njigba’s explosive play and Darnold’s inconsistency will be a focal point. The team will need to address its offensive line issues to ensure its offensive firepower can be sustained week in and week out.
