Jaxon Smith-Njigba Aims to Build on Success as Seahawks Prepare for Upcoming Season

SEATTLE (AP) — Jaxon Smith-Njigba's 2026 has been filled with achievements, including signing a record-breaking contract extension with the Seattle Seahawks. Just a month before finalizing his four-year, $168.8 million deal, which includes $120 million guaranteed, Smith-Njigba played a vital role in the Seahawks' Super Bowl victory. He was honored as the AP NFL Offensive Player of the Year shortly before Super Bowl 60, after setting a franchise record with 1,793 receiving yards and 119 receptions in a single season.

Following the first day of minicamp on Tuesday, Smith-Njigba reflected on his incredible year, describing it as a “blessing.” He expressed gratitude for the accolades and experiences that have come his way, saying, “This year has been great. It’s brought me a lot of great things, and things to learn and overcome and trophies and parades and stuff like that. So, it’s been a blessing. It’s been an amazing year.” He added, “And, we’re six months into the year, and I’m looking forward to the rest of it.”

As the Seahawks gear up for the season opener against the New England Patriots on September 9 in Seattle, Smith-Njigba plans to train in Texas during the offseason. He is eager to resume where the team left off, particularly with quarterback Sam Darnold and the offense adapting to the new system introduced by first-year offensive coordinator Brian Fleury. This scheme is expected to mirror that of Klint Kubiak, the former coordinator now leading the Las Vegas Raiders.

Smith-Njigba has found Fleury's coaching style to be clear and straightforward after several meetings and practices. “All the guys, we’re excited to be back and learn together and be together and figure this thing out,” he remarked. “It’s been awesome.”

Looking ahead, the fourth-year wide receiver is optimistic about further growth in Fleury's offense. He believes he can enhance his physicality and speed, especially as he continues to work alongside Darnold and fellow receivers Cooper Kupp and Rashid Shaheed. With newfound financial resources from his extension, Smith-Njigba is considering how to invest in his personal development while maintaining a low-key lifestyle. Despite his rising fame, he remains focused on his passion for football. “I’m a simple man, that’s what I’m really trying to say,” he stated. “I love to play ball, I love to be here, I love to go home and chill.”