When fans of the Seattle Seahawks got the news first round rookie receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba had wrist surgery, there was an understandable sense of disappointment. The idea of waiting to see the splashiest first round pick in recent memory – but also one that filled a need – longer than expected and dealing with injury was a bit deflating.
However, it appears the wait won’t be much longer at all. According to head coach Pete Carroll, JSN is on track to play in Week 1 as the Seahawks host the visiting Los Angeles Rams.
Pete Carroll said he expects WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba to play Sunday vs. the Rams. Smith-Njigba had wrist surgery two weeks ago and got back to practice last week.
— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) September 6, 2023
This is both exciting and eye-brow raising. The idea JSN is back so quickly and able to play is inspiring, but one can’t help but wonder if he is genuinely ready. We all know players want to come back from injury faster than their bodies will allow, such as Russell Wilson in 2021 with his hand injury. It was clear he was still being hampered even during his return.
Or perhaps JSN truly is built differently. As Carroll noted, he is not one to be denied. Fingers crossed JSN is ready to go, or at the very least the team does not feel the need to push him any more than they need to do so.
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