Fresh off helping the Seattle Seahawks capture a Super Bowl title, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has made it clear that his next goal is becoming the NFL’s highest-paid player at his position. The 24-year-old star believes his production, leadership, and commitment to both the game and his community justify a record-setting contract. While he emphasized that he would play football simply for the love of it, he also acknowledged the importance of understanding the business side and earning a deal that reflects his value.
Smith-Njigba is coming off a breakout season in which he posted 119 receptions for a league-leading 1,793 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns. His performance earned him Offensive Player of the Year honors and his first All-Pro selection, cementing his place among the league’s elite wideouts.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba (NFL)Smith-Njigba Eyes Major Contract Amid NFL Wide Receiver Market Shifts
The receiver market recently shifted when Cincinnati Bengals standout Ja’Marr Chase signed a four-year, $161 million extension, surpassing Minnesota Vikings star Justin Jefferson in average annual salary. Smith-Njigba becomes eligible for an extension at the start of the new league year in March, though he said he is not in a hurry to finalize a deal. Confident that the timing will work out, he expects negotiations to result in a significant contract.
Seattle enters the offseason with $63.4 million in salary cap space, giving the franchise flexibility as several key players approach free agency. For Smith-Njigba, the focus remains on continuing his ascent while preparing for a potentially landmark payday.
