Posted on Feb 21

Seahawks WR Smith-Njigba seeks highest-paid receiver status amid ongoing contract negotiations

Posted Feb 21, 2026

Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the talented wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, is poised to negotiate a significant contract extension, seeking to become the highest-paid player at his position.

Why it matters: As Smith-Njigba enters negotiations, it highlights a broader trend in the NFL where elite receivers command top dollar, impacting team salary caps and roster constructions across the league.

The current market sets a high bar, with Ja'Marr Chase leading at $40.25 million annually, followed closely by Justin Jefferson at $35 million.
Smith-Njigba's request for an extension worth more than $40 million would place him at the forefront of this competitive salary landscape.

What’s new: Smith-Njigba believes his contributions on and off the field warrant such a lucrative deal.

He set a franchise record with 1,793 receiving yards last season, leading the NFL despite the Seahawks' run-heavy offensive scheme.
In addition to his impressive regular-season performance, he played a crucial role in the Seahawks' Super Bowl victory, amassing 199 yards and two touchdowns in three playoff games.

Yes, but: While Smith-Njigba's statistics are compelling, the Seahawks must weigh his demands against their overall financial strategy and the impending negotiations with other key players, including Pro Bowl cornerback Devon Witherspoon.

Both players were first-round picks in 2023 and are expected to seek extensions simultaneously, potentially complicating the Seahawks' salary cap management.
The team's approach could significantly influence their ability to retain talent and remain competitive in the coming seasons.

What’s next: As negotiations progress, Smith-Njigba remains optimistic yet patient about securing a deal that reflects his value.

In his own words, “I’m really not too pressed right now... I know my time is coming.”
His understanding of business dynamics in the NFL suggests he recognizes the importance of timing in contract negotiations, particularly in relation to the looming draft and offseason changes.

The bottom line: Jaxon Smith-Njigba's quest for a top-tier contract underscores the evolving economics of the NFL, where elite players are leveraging their success to negotiate unprecedented deals.

If successful, Smith-Njigba's contract could reshape the receiver market and set new precedents for future negotiations, further emphasizing the significance of performance in determining player salaries.
As teams like the Seahawks navigate these challenging waters, the balance between rewarding talent and maintaining fiscal responsibility will be crucial.

Seahawks WR Smith-Njigba seeks highest-paid receiver status amid ongoing contract negotiations

Alex Parker

Posted Feb 21, 2026

Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the talented wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, is poised to negotiate a significant contract extension, seeking to become the highest-paid player at his position.

The current market sets a high bar, with Ja'Marr Chase leading at $40.25 million annually, followed closely by Justin Jefferson at $35 million.

Smith-Njigba's request for an extension worth more than $40 million would place him at the forefront of this competitive salary landscape.

What’s new: Smith-Njigba believes his contributions on and off the field warrant such a lucrative deal.

He set a franchise record with 1,793 receiving yards last season, leading the NFL despite the Seahawks' run-heavy offensive scheme.

In addition to his impressive regular-season performance, he played a crucial role in the Seahawks' Super Bowl victory, amassing 199 yards and two touchdowns in three playoff games.

Both players were first-round picks in 2023 and are expected to seek extensions simultaneously, potentially complicating the Seahawks' salary cap management.

The team's approach could significantly influence their ability to retain talent and remain competitive in the coming seasons.

What’s next: As negotiations progress, Smith-Njigba remains optimistic yet patient about securing a deal that reflects his value.

In his own words, “I’m really not too pressed right now... I know my time is coming.”

His understanding of business dynamics in the NFL suggests he recognizes the importance of timing in contract negotiations, particularly in relation to the looming draft and offseason changes.

If successful, Smith-Njigba's contract could reshape the receiver market and set new precedents for future negotiations, further emphasizing the significance of performance in determining player salaries.

As teams like the Seahawks navigate these challenging waters, the balance between rewarding talent and maintaining fiscal responsibility will be crucial.