Following the Seattle Seahawks‘ Super Bowl LX victory, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba shared an emotional goodbye with offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, who is set to become the next head coach of the Las Vegas Raiders. The heartfelt moment unfolded just after their win against the New England Patriots in San Francisco, marking a significant transition for the Seahawks’ coaching staff.
Captured on camera, Smith-Njigba and Kubiak exchanged a handshake followed by a warm embrace, likely their final interaction before their professional paths diverge.
Klint Kubiak’s Confirmation of Raiders Head Coach Role After Championship Win
Klint Kubiak’s impending departure from Seattle was widely anticipated within NFL circles, as he interviewed for the Raiders’ head coaching position the day before the Super Bowl. After leading Seattle through a championship-winning season, Kubiak officially confirmed his move.
You guys know I’m going to Las Vegas, I’m fired up about it,
Kubiak stated. He added with enthusiasm,
Hell yeah, I’m going. Of course I’m going.
Taking over a Raiders team that concluded the previous season with a 3-14 record, Kubiak faces the challenge of rebuilding the franchise. The Raiders hold the first overall pick in the 2026 NFL draft and are expected to select Indiana Hoosiers quarterback Fernando Mendoza, who recently earned the Heisman Trophy after leading his college team to an undefeated season including Big Ten and National Championships.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s Impactful Rookie Season and Super Bowl Performance
Smith-Njigba’s rookie season was remarkable, as he recorded 119 receptions for 1,793 yards—the eighth-highest single-season total for a receiver in NFL history. During the Super Bowl LX victory, he contributed four catches for 27 yards and was the second most targeted receiver behind Cooper Kupp, who had six receptions totaling 61 yards.
Despite a brief concussion evaluation during the game, Smith-Njigba returned to play, expressing elation after securing the championship.
Man, I’m on cloud nine right now.
he said candidly.
Seattle Seahawks’ Journey to Victory and Coaching Transition
Under Klint Kubiak’s guidance in his first season as offensive coordinator, the Seattle Seahawks quickly developed a strong offensive connection between quarterback Sam Darnold and Jaxon Smith-Njigba. This collaboration helped propel the Seahawks to a 29-13 win over the Patriots in the Super Bowl, securing the franchise’s latest championship.
The victory not only signifies a major achievement for the team but also highlights the potential impact Kubiak might bring to the Raiders as he steps into his new head coach role.
Future Implications for Seahawks and Raiders
The Seahawks will now face adjustments following Kubiak’s exit, particularly in maintaining the momentum built during this championship season. Meanwhile, the Raiders’ appointment of Kubiak brings hope for future revival, especially with the promising prospect of draft pick Fernando Mendoza potentially becoming a franchise quarterback.
This coaching change marks a significant shift in the NFL landscape, as both teams prepare for the challenges and opportunities that lie ahead.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba and his offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak (soon to be Raiders HC) share a special moment after Super Bowl win. pic.twitter.com/Q7BSyTct38
— Cameron Wolfe (@CameronWolfe) February 9, 2026
