Jaxon Smith-Njigba

Jaxon Smith-Njigba led the nation in yards per route run (4.01) at 19 years old despite playing in an offense with two future first-round picks: Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson. The Ohio State Buckeye also finished third in the FBS in receiving yards (1,595) and ranked first in PFF receiving grade (91.9). Entering his junior season with Wilson and Olave set for the NFL, Smith-Njigba had a chance to cement himself as the top dog in the 2023 WR class. However, he was limited to just three games due to a hamstring injury. The down year undoubtedly took a toll on JSN's draft stock, but his elite sophomore season cannot be undersold. The fact that he was able to post such elite numbers while competing for targets with two NFL first-round WRs - who balled out as rookies - showcases Smith-Njigba's super high floor as a professional technician from the slot. The Ohio State product possesses an Amon-Ra St. Brown-like projection at the next level.

At the 2023 NFL Scouting Combine, Smith-Njigba measured in at 6-foot-1 and 196 pounds. He did not run the 40-yard dash or perform well in the jumps, but he flashed his short-area quickness with the best time in the 3-cone drill at 6.57 seconds (96th percentile) and 3.93 short shuttle time (97th percentile).

Smith-Njigba ran 4.48 at the 40-yard dash on OSU's pro day.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba caught one of three targets for 10 yards in the Seahawks' 37-27 win over the Panthers on Sunday.

Fantasy Impact

Smith-Njigba has been a steady contributor on offense this season, though he has yet to deliver a fantasy-relevant performance. He'll continue to rank in the WR5 range while eating into Tyler Lockett's target share.