Jaxon Smith-Njigba has officially become the highest-paid wide receiver in league history. The Seattle Seahawks and Smith-Njigba agreed to a four-year extension worth $168.6 million, including $120 million guaranteed, according to NFL Network Insider Ian Rapoport. The deal carries a $42.15 million average per year, surpassing Ja'Marr Chase’s previous record of $40.25 million annually.
Coming off a career-defining 2025 campaign, Smith-Njigba led the NFL with 1,793 receiving yards on 119 catches, scoring 10 touchdowns and averaging a career-high 15.1 yards per reception. He also topped the league with 14.5 scrimmage yards per touch, earning first-team All-Pro honors and his second straight Pro Bowl selection while helping the Seahawks advance to the Super Bowl.
At just 24 years old, Smith-Njigba combines elite route-running, exceptional hands, and an innate understanding of defensive schemes, making him a consistently reliable target for Sam Darnold. His versatility — whether lining up wide, in the slot, or out of the backfield — creates matchup problems for any defense.
Seattle had previously exercised Smith-Njigba’s fifth-year option, valued at approximately $23.85 million, signaling their intent to secure him long-term. With this new deal, the Seahawks have locked down their top offensive weapon, while their next priority will be extending cornerback Devon Witherspoon.
Smith-Njigba’s record-setting contract also raises the stakes in the NFC West, particularly for division rival Puka Nacua of the Los Angeles Rams, who enters the final year of his contract and is likely to seek a new extension this offseason.
