In Seattle, Jaxon Smith-Njigba is set for a record-breaking contract extension following a historic season where he earned Offensive Player of the Year honors.
The news surfaced Friday via reporter Adam Schefter, who shared that Smith-Njigba is seeking to become the highest-paid player at his position. The 24-year-old receiver is coming off a championship campaign where he recorded 119 receptions and 1,793 receiving yards. These totals were capped by a 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX.
Smith-Njigba, the receiver entering the fourth year of his rookie contract, will look to surpass the current wide receiver market benchmark. The market is currently led by Ja'Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals at a $40.25 million average annual value. Reporter Schefter called out the impending negotiations. He said Smith-Njigba is now eligible for a massive extension and expects to exceed the current market record.
The receiver addressed his financial goals during a recent interview while visiting his hometown of Rockwall, Texas.
“I believe I deserve to be the highest paid... in my position,” Smith-Njigba said. “Just what I give to the game and the community... I give it my all... and I think that’s worth a lot, a lot more”.
Regarding his evolving professional approach, the league leader in receiving yards indicated he is balancing his passion for the sport with the commercial realities of the NFL.
“I love this game so much that... I would play this game for free, but you don't have to,” he added. “I’m learning to be a good businessman and we need that check at the end of the day”.
MORE: Seahawks' Jaxon Smith-Njigba makes bold Ja'Marr Chase contract wish worth over $40.25M
Jaxon Smith-Njigba isn't too worried about finalizing the deal
While waiting for formal negotiations to intensify with the Seattle organization, Smith-Njigba remains focused on his personal development and the Smith-Njigba Foundation. He noted that his record-breaking salary would support his family’s legacy and his eventual goal of an induction into the Hall of Fame.
“I’m really not too pressed right now to get it done,” Smith-Njigba said of the timeline. “I know my time is coming, and when we get it done, it’s gonna be a great deal... God’s timing is perfect timing”.
The Seahawks’ front office remained in abeyance regarding an official statement as the wideout continues specific training routines in Rockwall to ensure his trajectory toward a "gold jacket". For now, Smith-Njigba maintains that his process-oriented approach will lead to results regardless of when the deal is finalized.
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