Jaxon Smith-Njigba is a promising wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, drafted 20th in the 2023 NFL Draft. He set a school record at Ohio State with 1,606 receiving yards in one season. In his initial two NFL seasons, he recorded 163 receptions for 1,758 yards and 5 touchdowns. With a net worth of approximately $15 million, his future in the league looks bright. There’s much more to uncover about his path and achievements.
Early Life
Jaxon Smith-Njigba is an NFL player who grew up in a dynamic and athletic environment. He was influenced by his older brother, Canaan Smith-Njigba, a Major League Baseball player, and his father, Kelechi Njigba, a former linebacker, both of whom instilled a strong work ethic and discipline in him.
Jaxon attended Rockwall High School, where he honed his skills as a wide receiver, demonstrating his talent and resolve on the field. His multicultural background, with roots traced back to West Africa, has also played an essential role in shaping his character and approach to life.
Following a successful high school career, he moved on to Ohio State University, where he continued to excel in football, setting the stage for his future in the NFL.
Family Life
Jaxon Smith-Njigba comes from a family with a strong athletic lineage. His older brother, Canaan Smith-Njigba, made a name for himself in Major League Baseball with the Pittsburgh Pirates, while their father, Kelechi Njigba, played as a linebacker, highlighting the family’s commitment to sports.
Jaxon was raised in an environment that prioritized discipline and rigorous training, which played an essential role in shaping his athletic abilities.
Furthermore, he honors his multicultural heritage, with roots in Sierra Leone and Nigeria, by featuring the Sierra Leone flag on his helmet, reflecting the pride he takes in his family’s diverse background.
Career
Jaxon Smith-Njigba was selected 20th in total by the Seattle Seahawks in the 2023 NFL Draft after an outstanding career at Ohio State, where he set a school record with 1,606 receiving yards in a single season.
In his initial two NFL seasons, he exhibited remarkable talent, recording 163 receptions for 1,758 yards and 5 touchdowns. His role as a slot receiver has grown considerably, with his snap count increasing from 64% as a rookie to 86% in 2024.
Remarkably, in the 2024 season, he achieved a milestone of 100 receptions for 1,130 receiving yards, averaging 21.8 PPR points per game from Weeks 9-16, ranking him third among wide receivers.
Smith-Njigba illustrated exceptional consistency by catching a pass in every game during his rookie season and had a standout performance in 2024 with 7 receptions for 180 yards and 2 touchdowns against the Rams.
Net Worth
Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s net worth is estimated to be around $15 million as of 2023. He signed a four-year rookie contract with the Seattle Seahawks worth approximately $13.5 million, which includes a signing bonus of $7 million.
In his initial season, his salary was $3.4 million. As he continues his NFL career, Smith-Njigba’s impressive performance in the 2024 season, where he recorded considerable receiving yards and touchdowns, may further improve his financial standing through potential endorsement deals and contract extensions.
His financial outlook remains promising as he advances in his professional path.