Seahawks Exercise Options for Smith-Njigba, Witherspoon

Moves set up long-term contracts for star WR and CB

Mar. 21, 2026 at 4:33pm

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The Seattle Seahawks have exercised the fifth-year contract options for wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and cornerback Devon Witherspoon, ensuring both players remain on the roster through the 2027-28 season. This move gives the team time to negotiate new long-term deals for the two star players, who were key contributors to the Seahawks' Super Bowl championship run last season.

Why it matters

Retaining Smith-Njigba and Witherspoon is crucial for the Seahawks as they look to build on their recent success and maintain a championship-caliber roster. Both players are integral parts of the team's offense and defense, and locking them up long-term will provide stability and continuity as the Seahawks aim to defend their title.

The details

Smith-Njigba, 24, emerged as the Seahawks' top receiver last season, leading the league in receptions (119), receiving yards (1,793), and touchdowns (10). Witherspoon, 25, was a standout in the secondary, recording 72 combined tackles, 0.5 sacks, one interception, and one fumble recovery in 12 games played.

  • The Seahawks exercised the fifth-year options for Smith-Njigba and Witherspoon on Saturday, March 21, 2026.

The players

Jaxon Smith-Njigba

A 24-year-old wide receiver who led the NFL in receptions, receiving yards, and touchdowns last season, emerging as the Seahawks' top offensive weapon.

Devon Witherspoon

A 25-year-old cornerback who was a key contributor to the Seahawks' defense, recording 72 combined tackles, 0.5 sacks, one interception, and one fumble recovery in 12 games played last season.

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What’s next

With the fifth-year options exercised, the Seahawks will now have time to negotiate new long-term contracts for both Smith-Njigba and Witherspoon, ensuring the team's core remains intact as they look to defend their Super Bowl title.

The takeaway

The Seahawks' moves to retain Smith-Njigba and Witherspoon demonstrate their commitment to maintaining a championship-caliber roster and building around their young stars. These decisions will provide stability and continuity as the team aims to build on its recent success and remain a top contender in the NFL.