#Smith-Njigba#Seahawks#NFL contract#Highest-paid WR#Super Bowl champion#2025 season#AP Offensive Player of the Year#Contract extension
📌 Key Takeaways
Smith-Njigba believes he deserves to be the NFL's highest-paid wide receiver
He's not in a rush to get a new contract, trusting 'God's timing'
He had a record-breaking 2025 season with 1,793 receiving yards
The Seahawks plan to work on new deals for him and cornerback Devon Witherspoon this offseason
📖 Full Retelling
Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba stated in a recent interview in his hometown of Dallas that he isn't overly concerned about getting a new contract done with the Super Bowl LX champion team, but when he does, the 2025 AP Offensive Player of the Year believes he should be the NFL's highest-paid wide receiver. That would require an extension worth more than $40 million in new-money average, surpassing the current top earner. 'I'm really not too pressed right now to get it done,' Smith-Njigba said, adding that he trusts 'God's timing' and believes he deserves top compensation based on his contributions to the game and community. The Seahawks plan to work on new deals this offseason for Smith-Njigba and Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon, both first-round picks from 2023, with the team able to exercise fifth-year options on both contracts by May 1. Smith-Njigba's extension eligibility comes after a career-best season where he set a franchise record with 1,793 receiving yards despite Seattle running the ball at the league's highest rate, scored 10 touchdowns, made his second consecutive Pro Bowl, and delivered 199 yards with two touchdowns in three playoff games to help secure the team's second Lombardi Trophy.
🏷️ Themes
Contract negotiations, Player performance and value, Team management
The Super Bowl is the annual American football game that determines the champion of the National Football League (NFL). The game culminates a season that begins in the previous calendar year, and is the conclusion of the NFL playoffs. The winner receives the Vince Lombardi Trophy.
Jaxon Smith‑Njigba’s push to become the league’s highest‑paid wide receiver highlights the growing market for top talent in the NFL and signals the Seahawks’ willingness to invest heavily in key players. His demand reflects the broader trend of elite receivers commanding multi‑million contracts and could influence salary cap dynamics for other teams.
Context & Background
Smith‑Njigba set a franchise record with 1,793 receiving yards and 10 touchdowns in 2025, earning a Pro Bowl selection.
The Seahawks can exercise a fifth‑year option on his contract by May 1, making him extension‑eligible after the season.
The current top‑paid receivers are Ja‑Marr Chase ($40.25M) and Justin Jefferson ($35M), setting a benchmark for Smith‑Njigba’s target.
What Happens Next
The Seahawks are expected to negotiate a new deal for Smith‑Njigba during the offseason, potentially offering a contract exceeding $40M in average annual value. If the extension is reached, it could prompt other teams to reassess their own receiver contracts and affect the overall salary cap landscape.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Smith‑Njigba’s current contract status?
He has one season remaining on a four‑year, $14.4M rookie deal and is eligible for a fifth‑year option.
How does his requested salary compare to other top receivers?
His target of over $40M would match or surpass Ja‑Marr Chase’s $40.25M and exceed Justin Jefferson’s $35M.
When can the Seahawks exercise the fifth‑year option?
They must decide by May 1 before the 2026 season.
What impact could his extension have on the Seahawks’ salary cap?
A multi‑million contract would increase the team’s cap hit but could solidify the offense’s core for the next few years.
Original Source
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