JAXSON SMITH NJIGBA
By selecting Jason Smith-Njigba the Seahawks solidified their wide receiver corps and upgraded the offense at the same time. The pick is solid but there was some intrigue in that the team waited until 30 seconds were left on the clock before making the selection. During the nightly press conference Schneider referenced the length of time it took time for the team to make a pick.
We had a lot of stuff going on, probably five or six teams that we got close to things with. You guys saw the clock go down with Jaxon there and there was some late stuff going on there, but we are really pleased and excited to have the guys here tomorrow”
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The 6-1 200 pound Smith- Njigba was the first wide receiver drafted and is considered the top player at his position.
Prospect Information
6-1, 200 / Junior
Rockwall, Texas
Rockwall
COLLEGE SNAPSHOT
• Jaxon entered the 2022 season as one of the top receivers in college football – if not the top receiver – and a candidate for national honour’s
• Was coming off a fabulous 2021 season when he led Ohio State with school record totals of 95 receptions and 1,606 receiving yards … on a team that also featured first-round NFL Draft picks Garrett Wilson (No. 10 overall to the Jets) and Chris Olave (No. 11 overall to New Orleans)
• Suffered a hamstring injury in the first game of the 2022 season vs. Notre Dame and never made it back to full strength the rest of the year
• Played in just three games in 2022, with the Iowa game on Oct. 22 his final appearance on the field as a Buckeye
HONORS
2021: Rose Bowl game MVP; Third-team All-American (Associated Press); Third-team all-Big Ten Conference
2021: Rose Bowl game MVP; Third-team All-American (Associated Press); Third-team all-Big Ten Conference
Strengths
- Averaged 192 receiving yards per game in last five contests of 2021 season.
- Plays tough in the teeth of the defense as a zone-beater.
- Elevates his catch focus when contested.
- Leverages his intermediate break points.
- Softens and extends his hands to meet the throw.
- Tracks deep throws with poise and accuracy.
- Athletic and smooth catching on the move.
- Plays to his top speed throughout the route.
Weaknesses
- Vast majority of his production came in one season.
- Rolls into his breaks with top-heavy momentum.
- Lacks suddenness for separation in and out of breaks.
- Below average top-end speed to win vertically.
- Likely to be viewed as a slot-only option.
- Lacks burst to elude after the catch.
WHY THIS MAKES SENSE
The Seahawks have been looking for the third wide receiver for a long-time. Smith-Njigba is a super route runner who will step into the slot position and play the wideout as well. Look for Shane Waldron to use him in multiple positions. The wide receiver screen and jet fly sweep are all in play.
LONG TERM IMPACT
This is a pick for the present and the future. Smith-Njigba will make instant contributions to the Seahawk’s offense. Shane Waldron will find a way to get him on the field. If he stays healthy he is the long-term replacement for Tyler Lockett.
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