Jaxon Smith-Njigba Becomes NFL's Highest-Paid WR with Record Extension from Seahawks

Jaxon Smith-Njigba Becomes NFL's Highest-Paid WR with Record Extension from Seahawks

The NFL welcomes a new highest-paid wide receiver: Jaxon Smith-Njigba. The Seattle Seahawks have secured a groundbreaking four-year, $168.6 million contract extension, as reported by CBS Sports NFL Insider Jonathan Jones. This deal, averaging $42.15 million annually, surpasses the previous record held by Ja'Marr Chase of the Cincinnati Bengals by nearly $2 million. This historic extension follows the Seahawks' decision to pick up Smith-Njigba's fifth-year option last week, a move that was expected given his outstanding performance since being drafted 20th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft from Ohio State. In addition to setting a new average annual salary record, ESPN reports that Smith-Njigba will receive over $120 million guaranteed, another milestone for wide receivers. Highest-Paid WRs in the NFL Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Seahawks): $42.2 million Ja'Marr Chase (Bengals): $40.3 million Justin Jefferson (Vikings): $35 million CeeDee Lamb (Cowboys): $34 million DK Metcalf (Steelers): $33 million This extension marks the culmination of Smith-Njigba's emergence as one of the NFL's elite receivers in 2025, especially after the Seahawks revamped their wide receiver lineup by parting ways with veterans like DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. This shift allowed Smith-Njigba to ascend to the top of the depth chart. In 2025, he achieved a historic season, earning unanimous first-team All-Pro honors and the Offensive Player of the Year title by racking up 1,793 receiving yards, a franchise record that also led the NFL. Key to Seattle's Super Bowl LX run, Smith-Njigba made significant contributions in the playoffs, including 17 receptions for 199 yards and 2 touchdowns. His standout performance in the NFC Championship Game against the Los Angeles Rams—catching 10 of 12 targets for 153 yards and a touchdown—propelled the Seahawks to victory, culminating in their triumph over the Patriots to secure the Lombardi Trophy. With this new contract, Smith-Njigba is set to play a pivotal role in Seattle's quest for more championships in the coming years.

Source: CBS Sports - 2026-03-23