If you thought Jaxon Smith-Njigba was going to take a team-friendly deal with the Seattle Seahawks, we've got some bad news for you.
Smith-Njigba had a sensational 2025 season with the Seahawks, leading the league with 1,793 receiving yards while also hauling in 10 touchdown passes. Not only did he make his second straight Pro Bowl, he played a huge role in Seattle winning the Super Bowl.
The timing of Smith-Njigba's epic season was perfect considering he's due for an extension this offseason. He could, in theory, command at least $40 million per year from the Seahawks. Will he though? Well, he answered that question this week.
During a recent interview with WFAA, the Offensive Player of the Year made it clear that he wants to be the highest-paid wide receiver in the NFL.
"I'm really not too pressed right now to get it done," Smith-Njigba said. "I know my time is coming, and when we get it done, it's going to be a great deal. God's timing is perfect timing, so whenever that may come, we'll be ready for it. I believe I deserve to be the highest paid in my position. Just what I give to the game and the community, I give it my all, and I think that's worth a lot more."
As of this moment, Cincinnati Bengals star Ja'Marr Chase is the highest-paid wide receiver with an annual average of $40.25 million. That's currently the number to beat for Smith-Njigba.
Jan 25, 2026; Seattle, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba (11) is interviewed after defeating the Los Angeles Rams in the 2026 NFC Championship Game at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Kevin Ng-Imagn Images © Kevin Ng-Imagn Images
NFL fans disappointed in JSN.
Judging by the responses to Smith-Njigba's comments, NFL fans don't believe he should surpass Chase as the highest-paid wide receiver.
"This is the kind of stuff that ruins a team," one fan said.
"Only hurting his team by becoming the highest paid. He should be paid don't get me wrong, but becoming the highest paid is wild," a second fan commented.
"Nah Seahawk fans .. he needs another year for that title gang … Jamar the only WR I see that deserves that type of money rn," another fan argued.
"Huge JSN fan, but he's not there yet. I'm all for players getting their money, but you can't put that out there after 1 breakout season," a social media user added.
While a $40 million salary would limit Seattle's cap flexibility, calling Smith-Njigba a one-year wonder isn't exactly fair. He had 100 catches for 1,130n yards and six touchdowns during the 2024 season.
Besides, the Seahawks are going to pay him. He's a 24-year-old wideout who is just entering the prime of his career.
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