The Seattle Seahawks have locked in their superstar wide receiver with a historic deal, sources told ESPN on Monday morning. (SOURCE)
According to reports, Jaxon Smith-Njigba has agreed to a four-year, $168.6 million contract extension that makes him the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history.
The deal carries an average annual value of $42.15 million and includes more than $120 million guaranteed, both setting new benchmarks at the position. Smith-Njigba is now under contract with Seattle through the 2031 season.
Resetting the wide receiver market
Smith-Njigba’s extension surpasses the previous top wide receiver deal held by Ja’Marr Chase, who averages $40.25 million per year with the Cincinnati Bengals.
The new deal further elevates the wide receiver market, placing Smith-Njigba ahead of other elite pass catchers such as Justin Jefferson, CeeDee Lamb, DK Metcalf and Garrett Wilson in average annual value.
The ripple effect could extend across the league, particularly for division rivals like the Los Angeles Rams, who may soon negotiate a new deal for Puka Nacua.
Rewarding elite production
Smith-Njigba, 24, is coming off a dominant 2025 season in which he posted career highs across the board.
He recorded 119 receptions for 1,793 yards and 10 touchdowns, earning first-team All-Pro honors and the NFL Offensive Player of the Year award.
His impact extended into the postseason as well, totaling 17 receptions for 199 yards and two touchdowns across three playoff games during Seattle’s championship run.
Rapid rise to NFL stardom
Since entering the league as the No. 20 overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, Smith-Njigba has quickly developed into one of the league’s premier receivers.
After a 628-yard rookie season, he broke out in his second year with 1,130 receiving yards and a Pro Bowl selection. He followed that with a league-leading performance in 2025, establishing himself as the focal point of Seattle’s offense.
Despite missing much of his final college season at Ohio State Buckeyes football due to injury, Smith-Njigba has not missed a game during his NFL career.
Seahawks building for the future
Seattle has made a clear commitment to its young core.
The franchise recently extended offensive tackle Charles Cross and could soon explore a new deal for cornerback Devon Witherspoon.
By securing Smith-Njigba long term, the Seahawks ensure that one of the league’s most dynamic playmakers remains at the center of their offense for years to come.