Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is eligible for a new contract after completing three seasons on his rookie deal. The 24-year-old, who was named the 2025 AP Offensive Player of the Year, expressed confidence that he deserves to be the NFL’s highest-paid wide receiver based on his on-field performance and community contributions.
Smith-Njigba Shares Perspective on Contract Timing and Value
Smith-Njigba indicated he is not rushing negotiations.
“I’m really not too pressed right now to get it done,”
he told WFAA-TV. He added,
“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, so whenever that may come, we’ll be ready for it. I think I deserve to be the highest-paid at 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, lot more.”
With one year left on his four-year, $14.4 million rookie contract, Smith-Njigba emphasized the importance of being rewarded for his efforts.
“I would play this game for free, I love this game so much, but you don’t have to,”
he said.
“I’m learning to be a good businessman, and we need that check at the end of the day.”
Record-Breaking Season Sets Stage for Lucrative Deal
Smith-Njigba’s 2025 season was historic, leading the league with 1,793 receiving yards, alongside 119 receptions and 10 touchdowns. His outstanding performance earned him a second consecutive Pro Bowl selection. In the postseason, he contributed 199 yards and two touchdowns over three games, helping the Seahawks claim their second Super Bowl championship.
Since being drafted 20th overall by Seattle in the 2023 NFL Draft out of Ohio State, Smith-Njigba has totaled 282 receptions for 3,551 yards and 20 touchdowns over 51 games, including 36 starts.
Comparing Market Standards Among Top Wide Receivers
Currently, Cincinnati Bengals star Ja’Marr Chase holds the record for the highest annual salary among wide receivers, earning $40.25 million per year under a four-year, $161 million contract extension signed in March 2025. Smith-Njigba’s goal is to surpass this benchmark based on his achievements and value to his team and fans.
Future Outlook for Smith-Njigba and the Seahawks
As Smith-Njigba approaches contract talks, his combination of elite talent and improved business acumen positions him as a leading figure in NFL negotiations. His commitment to excellence on and off the field signals a transformative moment not only for his career but also for the Seahawks’ future. Fans and analysts alike will watch closely as the new deal discussions unfold, which could reshape pay scales for wide receivers league-wide.
