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Jaxon Smith-Njigba Puts Seahawks on Notice With Bold Demand for Next Contract
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- Jaxon Smith-Njigba Puts Seahawks on Notice With Bold Demand for Next Contract
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Seattle Seahawks superstar Jaxon Smith-Njigba revealed this week that he isn't thinking about his next contract. But when it comes time to talk about it, he is aiming to set a new NFL record.
Smith-Njigba has been everything the Seahawks could have hoped for and more after using their first-round pick in 2023 on the Ohio State receiver. After waiting in line during his rookie season behind team greats DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett , he made an immediate impact in his sophomore season.
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In 2024, the pass catcher posted 100 catches for 1,130 yards and six touchdowns. Maintaining that level of play in the years ahead would have made him worth being the 20th overall pick three years ago. However, this past season, he showed he has the talent to absolutely dominate like an elite receiver.
In 2025, Jaxon Smith-Njigba led the NFL with just under 1,800 yards, finished tied for third in touchdowns (10), and was fourth in catches (119). This past season, JSN emerged as one of the very best wide receivers in the league. And it seems he wants to be paid like one when his current contract ends after the 2027 season.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba wants record deal from Seahawks in next contract
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"I'm really not too pressed right now to get [a new contract] done," Smith-Njigba told WFAA in Dallas on Friday [ h/t ESPN ]. "I know my time is coming, and when we get it done, it's going to be a great deal. God's timing is perfect, so whenever that may come, we'll be ready for it.
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"I believe I deserve to be the highest paid in 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 more."
Heading into the 2026 campaign, Cincinnati Bengals superstar Ja'Marr Chase is currently the highest-paid at WR after he inked a four-year deal worth $161 million last year. The pact pays him just over $40 million annually. However, the deal was also signed after he posted a receiver triple crown in 2024.
If Jaxon Smith-Njigba can rise to that level next season, getting over $40 million a season might be necessary. But if he doesn't, it puts the Seahawks in a difficult spot because they don't win a Super Bowl earlier this month without JSN.
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