Jaxon Smith-Njigba: Believe I deserve to be highest-paid WR

Seattle– Jackson Smith-Njigba He said he’s not too worried about getting a new deal with the defending Super Bowl LX champions Seattle Seahawks. But when he does, the 2025 AP Offensive Player of the Year believes he should be the league’s highest-paid wide receiver.

This would mean an increase in new money averaging more than $40 million.

“I’m not really under a lot of pressure right now to get it done,” Smith-Njigba said in a recent interview with WFAA in his hometown of Dallas. “I know my time is coming, and when we get it done, it’ll be great. God’s timing is the right time, so whenever that time comes, we’ll be ready for it. I believe I deserve the highest pay in my position. I give everything I have to the game and the community, and I think that’s worth a lot more.”

Seahawks plan to work out new deals for Smith-Njigba and the Pro Bowl cornerback this offseason devon witherspoonWho was a first-round pick in 2023. Seattle can exercise the fifth-year option on both contracts until May 1.

Smith-Njigba becomes eligible for an extension after the best season of his career. He set a franchise record and led the NFL with 1,793 receiving yards despite Seattle running the ball at the league’s highest rate. Smith-Njigba scored 10 touchdowns and totaled 199 yards and two touchdowns in three playoff games before making his second consecutive Pro Bowl, helping the Seahawks claim their second Lombardi Trophy.

cincinnati bengals‘ jammer chase When he signed a four-year, $161 million extension last March, he became the league’s highest-paid receiver in terms of annual average with $40.25 million. minnesota vikings‘ Justin Jefferson Is in second place with $35 million per year.

Not counting 2027 as a potential option year, Smith-Njigba has one season remaining on his four-year, $14.4 million rookie contract.

“I’ll play this game for free,” Smith-Njigba said. “I love this game. But you don’t have to do that, and I’m learning to be a good businessman, and at the end of the day we need that check.”