Jaxon Smith-Njigba just became the highest-paid receiver in NFL history, signing a massive $168.6 million deal with the Seattle Seahawks that’ll keep him in the Emerald City for the next four years.
It’s hard to argue he hasn’t earned it. The 24-year-old put together what might be the greatest offensive season any Seahawk has ever had, snagging 119 catches for 1,793 yards and 10 touchdowns on his way to helping Seattle win the Super Bowl.
That’s pretty amazing for a guy who was just drafted in 2023.
The former Ohio State star has been nothing short of spectacular since entering the league. In just three seasons, he’s racked up 282 catches, 3,551 yards, and 20 touchdowns. His breakout 2025 campaign earned him AP Offensive Player of the Year honors and the NFL receiving yards crown.
When Seattle first drafted Smith-Njigba, they saw him as a perfect complement to DK Metcalf. Instead, he became their new number one receiver, playing so well that the team felt comfortable trading Metcalf to Pittsburgh.
The young receiver’s rise has been meteoric. From first-round pick to record-setting contract in just three years – that’s the kind of career trajectory most players can only dream about.
His 2025 season wasn’t just good – it was historic. Those 1,793 receiving yards didn’t just lead the NFL, they set a new Seahawks franchise record. And with this new contract, it looks like he’ll be breaking more records in Seattle for years to come.
Think you know your NFL history? Here’s a challenge: Can you name the single-season receiving yards record holder for every NFL team? Smith-Njigba just claimed Seattle’s – but what about the other 31 franchises?
