Jaxon Smith-Njigba has agreed a four-year contract extension with the Seattle Seahawks, making him the highest-paid wide receiver in NFL history.
Sources told ESPN the deal is worth $168.6 million. The contract averages $42.15 million per year and includes over $120 million guaranteed, both setting records for a wide receiver. The two-time Pro Bowler is now contractually tied to Seattle through the 2031 season.
Smith-Njigba’s Record-Breaking Deal
The Seahawks previously exercised Smith-Njigba’s fifth-year option for 2027, worth approximately $23.9 million, last week.
Smith-Njigba’s deal with the Seahawks marks the latest rise in the wide receiver market. The Los Angeles Rams, a division rival, could be working on a Puka Nacua extension this offseason. Nacua is entering the final year of his deal in 2026.
Market Impact and Comparison
Smith-Njigba’s salary surpasses Ja’Marr Chase’s deal with the Cincinnati Bengals. Chase’s deal has an average annual value of $40.25 million.
Other receivers with high average annual values include Justin Jefferson ($35 million), CeeDee Lamb ($34 million), DK Metcalf ($33 million) and Garrett Wilson ($32.5 million).
Seahawks’ Strategy
The defending Super Bowl champion Seahawks previously extended star left tackle Charles Cross, their first-round selection in 2022. In addition to Smith-Njigba, a 2023 first-round draft pick, Seattle’s other 2023 first-round pick, star cornerback Devon Witherspoon, is also eligible for an extension.
Smith-Njigba’s Performance
Smith-Njigba, 24, set career highs in receptions (119), receiving yards (1,793) and touchdown receptions (10) en route to being named a first-team All-Pro in 2025. He had 17 catches for 199 yards and two touchdowns in three postseason games.
Adam Schefter reports that Rashid Shaheed is signing a three-year, $51 million deal to remain in Seattle.