Tag: JSN

Jaxon Smith-Njigba announces “retirement” after Pro Bowl

Jaxon Smith-Njigba announces “retirement” after Pro Bowl

The 2025 Pro Bowl games have concluded, which involved a flag football game. The NFC prevailed overall by a score of 76-63, including a 56-50 win with flag football. This marks the third-straight season the NFC has won under this current format.

Unfortunately for Seattle Seahawks fans, it appears wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is hanging up his cleats. In a shocking move, following a 100-reception season with 1,130 receiving yards, JSN announced on Twitter he is retiring.

Well… not really. JSN did announce retirement, but from playing quarterback. This followed his… somewhat less than stellar attempt at quarterback during the flag football game.

Which of course prompted JSN to post this to his personal Twitter account.

I believe I speak for everyone in the Pacific Northwest when we say we’re okay with JSN deciding to stick with being a receiver. He certainly excels at that skillset, as evidenced by this past season and even the same flag football game.

Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba is headed to the Pro Bowl!

Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba is headed to the Pro Bowl!

Congratulations are in order for Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. On Tuesday morning it was revealed the second year star would be receiving his first trip to the Pro Bowl! JSN will be replacing Washington Commanders wide receiver Terry McLaurin who has bowed out due to an injury.

JSN joins his fellow 2023 first round classmate Devon Witherspoon in the Pro Bowl, as well as defensive lineman Leonard Williams. Big Cat himself was announced as a Pro Bowler on Monday, replacing Philadelphia’s Jalen Carter.

JSN’s inclusion to the Pro Bowl this year keeps a shockingly impressive streak alive for the Seahawks. This is now the 14th consecutive year Seattle has had at least three representatives participating in… or named to… the Pro Bowl. The caveat here being the two Super Bowl years where no Seahawk participated as they were preparing for, well, you know, the Super Bowl.

The 2024 campaign was a breakout year for JSN, who set new career-best marks in every category. JSN hauled in 100 receptions (tying Tyler Lockett’s single-season franchise reception record) for 1,130 yards and six touchdowns. His emergence reminded everyone why the Seahawks made him the first wide receiver selected in the 2023 NFL draft.

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3 Bold Predictions for Seahawks offense vs. Rams in Week 18

3 Bold Predictions for Seahawks offense vs. Rams in Week 18

The Seattle Seahawks will conclude their 2024 season against their NFC West rival Los Angeles Rams on Sunday in Week 18. Several of Ryan Grubb’s offensive starters possess financial and historical-based reasons to put their best effort forward despite already being eliminated from playoff contention. With that in mind, we’ve compiled three bold predictions for the offense.

Geno Smith makes $6 million in incentives

Starting quarterback Geno Smith can earn an additional $6 million via incentives, which would be tacked onto his March roster bonus, if he reaches several statistical achievements. That’s on the higher end of achievable incentives. Smith could earn $2 million for a 10th Seahawks victory, $2 million for reaching 4,282 passing yards (he needs 185), and another $2 million for finishing at 69.7555% completion rate or higher (he’s at 70.2359%).

Jaxon Smith-Njigba shatters Tyler Lockett’s single-season record

Sophomore wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is four receptions away (96) from equaling Tyler Lockett’s single-season receptions record (100). Smith-Njigba can sit atop the leaderboard with five catches, one fewer than his per-game average (six). Expect JSN to etch his name in the Seahawks’ record books on Sunday.

Tyler Lockett scores a TD in his potential final game as a Seahawk

Speaking of Lockett, the franchise legend will potentially be playing in his final game with the Seahawks on Sunday. That’s tough to stomach, but Lockett has expressed interest in continuing his career next season, but his cap charge is unfathomably scheduled at $30.8 million, and GM John Schneider could create significant financial flexibility by releasing him. Look for Grubb to try and get the veteran into the end zone in case this is his final hurrah with the organization that drafted him in 2015.

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Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba is chasing history in Week 18

Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba is chasing history in Week 18

Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has experienced a breakout season as a sophomore in 2024. Smith-Njigba leads the Seahawks in receptions (96), receiving yards (1,121) and touchdowns (six) this year. JSN will be chasing history in Sunday’s regular-season finale versus the Los Angeles Rams in Week 18.

Franchise legend Tyler Lockett holds the organization’s single-season receptions record with 100 in 2020. That marks the only recorded time in Seahawks history that a receiver has reached or surpassed triple digits in catches. Smith-Njigba can equal Lockett’s record with four receptions, or surpass it with five catches. It’s worth noting Smith-Njigba is averaging a team-high six receptions per game this season.

DK Metcalf, for one, is hoping to watch Smith-Njigba shatter Lockett’s record on Sunday. “It’s like a passing of a torch in my opinion,” Metcalf told reporters on Wednesday.

It would be borderline poetic to watch Smith-Njigba break Lockett’s historic record in front of him in what’s potentially Lockett’s final game with the franchise. Smith-Njigba has been outstanding throughout 2024, putting a mildly disappointing rookie campaign (2023) behind him while undoubtedly meeting what the Seahawks’ pre-draft expectations were for him. JSN is already slated to cement himself in franchise history.

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Seahawks WR DK Metcalf heaps Tyler Lockett with praise amidst uncertain future

Seahawks WR DK Metcalf heaps Tyler Lockett with praise amidst uncertain future

Seattle Seahawks veteran wide receiver Tyler Lockett the team’s longest-tenured player. Having spent his entire career to date in Seattle, Locket will conclude his 10th campaign with the organization in Sunday’s Week 18 regular-season finale with the Los Angeles Rams. Doing so, he’ll continue cementing himself as one of the most notable talents in franchise history.

Uncertainty awaits Lockett in the offseason. He’s had to accept a smaller role this season, totaling 47 receptions for 572 receiving yards and two touchdowns with one game remaining. That represents Lockett’s fewest catches, scores, and yards since his third campaign (2017). Meanwhile Jaxon Smith-Njigba continues to develop, establishing himself alongside DK Metcalf as Geno Smith’s go-to weapons.

With unknown looming, Metcalf stepped to the podium on Wednesday, accepting a moment to heap praise on Lockett in front of local reporters. “He’s a Hall of Famer in my book, on and off the field,” Metcalf said.

Lockett is technically under contract with the Seahawks through next season. But there’s no guaranteed money remaining on his agreement, and general manager John Schneider could clear a sizable $17 million in cap savings by releasing him, per OverTheCap. Lockett’s scheduled cap charge is $30.8 million, an unfathomable, unrealistic amount given his declining production. At minimum, a vastly reworked contract would be required.

The writing is on the wall, just like it was for Quandre Diggs and Jamal Adams last season. If Lockett’s career with the Seahawks concludes versus the Rams in Week 18, it’s been a pleasure. Lockett deserves the biggest send-off the organization can muster, whenever his time arrives.

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No huddle was a constant feature of Seahawks’ 2024 offense

No huddle was a constant feature of Seahawks’ 2024 offense

Seattle Seahawks offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb will reach the conclusion of his first campaign in charge in Sunday’s Week 18 regular-season finale versus the Los Angeles Rams. Grubb was appointed by first-year head coach Mike Macdonald. Seahawks fans possessed questions regarding what his offense would look like considering this was his first gig outside the college ranks.

Grubb’s offense has shown improvement in some key areas. One interesting wrinkle has been Grubb’s usage of the no-huddle offense. Entering Sunday’s finale with the Rams, the Seahawks rank fifth in no-huddle usage at 21.7 percent, according to data collected by Establish the Run.

There are a few notable takeaways. Seattle’s effective usage of no-huddle reflects well on Grubb. Firstly, successfully operating a no-huddle offense places stress on opposing defenses. It also takes an experienced, in-command quarterback to pull it off, so credit to Geno Smith.

Entering Week 18, the Seahawks are scoring a 19th-ranked 21.6 points per contest. That’s slightly below average and needs improving next season. It’s essentially on par with the 21.4 they scored per outing last season under unpopular OC Shane Waldron.

The passing attack has significantly improved this season (238.1 per game vs. 230.0), but the rushing attack has continued to struggle, failing to improve on last year’s output of 92.9 rushing yards per game, posting just one more yard (93.8/game) this season. Improving the offensive line and getting more out of Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet will be an offseason focal point.

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3 Bold Predictions for Seahawks offense vs. Bears in Week 17

3 Bold Predictions for Seahawks offense vs. Bears in Week 17

The Seattle Seahawks are considered heavy favorites in Thursday evening’s Week 17 matchup versus the lackluster Chicago Bears. Seattle’s offense scored 24 points in Sunday’s defeat to the Minnesota Vikings. On a short week, we’ve compiled three bold predictions for Ryan Grubb’s offense against a hurting Bears defense.

Geno Smith plays a turnover-free game

Starting quarterback Geno Smith threw two interceptions in the Vikings defeat, including a game-clinching back-breaker with 55 seconds remaining. Smith has now thrown 17 touchdowns and 15 interceptions this season. Ball security will be a focal point throughout a short week of practice leading up to Thursday’s showdown with the Bears.

DK Metcalf scores a TD

DK Metcalf ended an uncharacteristic five-game scoring drought via a 25-yard touchdown in the first quarter of the Vikings defeat. Metcalf was effective, averaging an explosive 19 yards per reception while catching three balls for 57 total yards. Seattle’s big-play boundary threat will attempt to keep momentum going by scoring a TD for a second consecutive outing.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads the offense in receiving yards

Jaxon Smith-Njigba led the Seahawks in receptions (eight) and receiving yards (95) for an eighth consecutive contest against the Vikings on Sunday. JSN has become Smith’s go-to target in the passing attack. There’s no tangible reason to believe that’ll change versus a playing-for-nothing Bears defense on a short week. Smith-Njigba could surpass 100 receiving yards.

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3 improved Seahawks we’re thankful for this Holiday season

3 improved Seahawks we’re thankful for this Holiday season

The Holidays are a time for self-reflection and positivity. The 8-7 Seattle Seahawks have endured an inconsistent season. Entering Week 17, Mike Macdonald’s club requires help to re-steal the NFC West division from the Los Angeles Rams. Despite the disappointing situation they currently find themselves in, several Seahawks players have showcased improvement throughout this campaign.

We’ve identified three in particular we’re thankful for this holiday season.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba

Sophomore wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has developed into the Seahawks’ go-to playmaker this season. After an up-and-down rookie campaign, JSN currently leads the offense in receptions (93), receiving yards (1,089), and catching touchdowns (six). Smith-Njigba has already destroyed his rookie-season receiving line (63-628-4). His ascension has been a terrific development for Ryan Grubb’s offense.

Zach Charbonnet

No. 2 running back Zach Charbonnet has been the unsung hero of the offense this season. Preferred ball carrier Kenneth Walker III has been nursing ankle and calf injuries in recent weeks. The sophomore Charbonnet leads all Seahawks skill players in touchdowns with nine (eight rushing, one receiving) through Week 16. In a recent opportunity to lead the backfield, he rushed for a career-high 134 yards and two scores.

Derick Hall

The third and final member of John Schneider’s excellent 2023 draft class to make this list, Derick Hall has flashed legitimate improvement as a pass rusher this season. After playing a part-time role as a rookie that had many questioning the value of his second-round pick status, Hall has exploded in 2024. The former Auburn standout is tied with Leonard Williams for the team-lead in sacks with 7.0 quarterback takedowns.

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Pro Football Focus’ 3 highest-graded Seahawks vs. Vikings on offense in Week 16

Pro Football Focus’ 3 highest-graded Seahawks vs. Vikings on offense in Week 16

The Seattle Seahawks fell short of upsetting the Minnesota Vikings on Sunday, losing a nail biter 27-24. Though Geno Smith and the offense turned over the football on the game’s most important possession, Ryan Grubb’s unit was effective, racking up a game-high 361 total yards. These Seahawks were their highest-graded players on offense on Sunday, according to Pro Football Focus.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba | 75.8

Jaxon Smith-Njigba has become Smith’s go-to receiver this season. JSN led the Seahawks in receptions (eight) and receiving yards (95) for an eighth consecutive contest. Smith-Njigba also reached the end zone for a sixth occasion this season via an 18-yard grab in the second quarter.

Charles Cross | 73.0

Seahawks left tackle Charles Cross handled Brian Flores’ haunting pass rush in impressive fashion. The former Mississippi State standout only allowed two pressures and zero sacks in pass protection. Smith was only sacked twice. He could always rely on his blindside protector to provide a clean pocket. The other four blockers? Not so much.

DK Metcalf | 67.9

DK Metcalf finally ended a five-game scoring drought through a 25-yard score in the first quarter, tying the game at seven apiece. Metcalf concluded Sunday with a respectable three receptions for 57 receiving yards. The big-play boundary threat averaged an explosive 19 yards per catch.

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Despite the loss, Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba reflects on his historic season

Despite the loss, Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba reflects on his historic season

Sunday evening was a brutal one for the Seattle Seahawks. The 27-24 loss to the Minnesota Vikings have them on the verge of elimination for next weekend, and their fate is no longer in their own hands. Being unable to return to the playoffs for the third time in the last four seasons would be a considerable disappointment, however, there are still aspects to the 2024 campaign that should give positive vibes moving forward.

On the top of such a list has to be wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who proved he can absolutely be a game-changing force for this offense. JSN truly emerged this year, and even found a way to make history despite the loss. With his 95 receiving yards against the Vikings, he officially eclipsed the 1,000+ yard mark. This makes him only the 10th player in Seahawks franchise history to eclipse 1,000 receiving yards in a single season.

I asked JSN about this incredible milestone, and he gave a thoughtful response.

“First off, I would like to thank God for feeling healthy, feeling good, being able to go out there and put that Seahawk helmet on,” JSN immediately stated. “It means a lot to me, and Geno too. I want to say thank you to Geno, and the rest of my teammates, receivers, getting me open, o-line doing their thing. Hopefully, it is just the beginning. 

Of course, no matter what kind of records JSN sets or milestones reached, nothing ever feels as good as winning. I’m sure the former Buckeye would trade a few extra yards for another win or two at this point in the year.

Seattle is still alive, but officially on life support. Should the Rams win this weekend against the Arizona Cardinals, the Seahawks will be all but eliminated.

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