It has been a slow build for Seattle Seahawks first round rookie wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. As the first receiver of the 2023 NFL draft, expectations for JSN naturally skyrocketed. But a rather slow start to his career left some wondering.
Now, those who watched the games could see he has two receivers in DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett ahead of him in the depth chart. Not to mention the injuries the offensive line which left Seattle to run a more run-oriented, conservative offense early on. Nevertheless, there was still concern.
However, that concern is starting to fade rapidly. JSN has now caught two game winning touchdowns in the final minute, and is becoming a far more integral member of this offense. He has all the confidence of his quarterback, Geno Smith, who spoke about his progress each week. Per Mike Dugar at the Athletic:
“He’s getting better every single week… I love the way that he’s preparing in practice. He’s working extremely hard in practice. He’s getting better every single day in practice. He’s really getting more comfortable in the offense, just learning his assignments, the routes, the depths, all the things that we talked about him being great at. Obviously, he’s a natural receiver when it comes to catching the football and making plays.”
The Seahawks are facing two must-win games. The Steelers and the always frisky Cardinals. On paper, Seattle should be favored. But this is the NFL, and nothing can be expected. The Seahawks will need JSN at full go to help this offense if they want to finish strong and qualify for the playoffs.
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