Jaxon Smith-Njigba poised for lucrative extension as Seahawks face pivotal decisions
The Seattle Seahawks made a savvy move when they selected wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba with the 20th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. Despite already having established stars D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett on the roster, it quickly became apparent that JSN was destined for greatness. After a remarkable sophomore season—one that included a Pro Bowl selection and over 1,000 receiving yards—Smith-Njigba is now on the cusp of breaking even more records as he enters his third year.
Record-breaking performance
In just 11 games this season, JSN has emerged as a dominant force in the league, recording an impressive 80 receptions for a league-leading 1,313 yards and seven touchdowns, placing him fourth in the NFL in touchdowns. This level of performance has put him squarely in the conversation for a monumental contract extension with the Seahawks, a discussion that will take center stage as the season draws to a close.
Contract extension considerations
Currently, Smith-Njigba is playing under a four-year contract worth $14.4 million, which includes a team option extending into the 2027 season. His base salary is set to nearly double from $1.5 million this year to $2.71 million next season. However, given his breakout performance, both he and his agency are expected to negotiate a deal that reflects his true value in the league.
While the exact figures JSN is aiming for in a long-term deal remain unclear, comparisons can be drawn with other elite receivers in the NFL. Players like Ja’Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, and CeeDee Lamb have all seen significant financial growth following their rookie contracts. Chase currently leads the pack as the highest-paid receiver with an annual salary of $40.25 million, followed closely by Jefferson at $35 million and Lamb at $34 million. For the Seahawks, securing JSN within the $33 to $35 million range would likely be the most advantageous scenario, allowing room to allocate funds to other areas of the team.
Market value and performance metrics
Smith-Njigba has a strong case for top-tier compensation, particularly given his consistent improvement since entering the league. This season, he has demonstrated remarkable reliability and explosive playmaking ability, consistently accounting for at least 75 receiving yards in every game played, and exceeding 100 yards in eight contests. Moreover, he is on track to challenge Calvin Johnson’s legendary single-season receiving yard record of 1,964 yards, potentially exceeding it within the same number of games it took Johnson to achieve that mark.
To put his worth into perspective, Johnson signed a rookie contract worth $55.5 million over six years, averaging $9.25 million annually as the second overall pick in the 2007 NFL Draft. After his rookie deal, he secured a seven-year extension worth $113.4 million, averaging $16.2 million per year—figures that were groundbreaking at the time.
Future negotiations
As JSN approaches contract discussions with the Seahawks, the focus will likely be on structuring a deal that offers high value over the years. With Smith-Njigba set to turn 24 in February, both parties have a vested interest in establishing a long-term relationship that benefits the team and the player alike.
As the offseason approaches, the Seahawks and JSN are gearing up for critical negotiations. Their mutual desire for a long-term commitment is clear, and how they navigate this pivotal juncture will undoubtedly shape the franchise’s future.
