Seahawks Sign Star Receiver to Record-Breaking Extension

Jaxon Smith-Njigba inks 4-year, $168.6M deal to become NFL's highest-paid wideout

Mar. 24, 2026 at 4:50pm

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The Seattle Seahawks have agreed to a four-year, $168.6 million contract extension with star wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, making him the highest-paid player at his position. The deal includes $120 million in guaranteed money and will keep the 24-year-old under contract through the 2031 season.

Why it matters

Smith-Njigba has emerged as the Seahawks' top offensive weapon, setting franchise records in receptions, yards, and touchdowns last season. Retaining him long-term is crucial as the team transitions to a new offensive coordinator and loses key pieces like running back Kenneth Walker III.

The details

Drafted 20th overall in 2023, Smith-Njigba has posted back-to-back 1,000-yard seasons and was named First-Team All-Pro and Offensive Player of the Year in 2025 after a dominant campaign that included 119 catches for 1,793 yards and 10 touchdowns. His standout play helped power the Seahawks to a Super Bowl LX victory.

  • Smith-Njigba was drafted by the Seahawks in 2023.
  • He signed a 4-year, $168.6 million extension on March 24, 2026.

The players

Jaxon Smith-Njigba

A 24-year-old wide receiver who has emerged as the Seahawks' top offensive weapon, setting franchise records in receptions, yards, and touchdowns in 2025.

Sam Darnold

The Seahawks' starting quarterback, who will continue working with Smith-Njigba under the team's new offensive coordinator.

Brian Fleury

The Seahawks' new offensive coordinator, who will be tasked with continuing to evolve the team's offense around Smith-Njigba.

Kenneth Walker III

The Seahawks' former running back who has moved on in free agency, leaving Smith-Njigba as an even more central figure in the team's offense.

Klint Kubiak

The Seahawks' former offensive coordinator, who has departed to take a head coaching role elsewhere.

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What they’re saying

“We must lock up our young stars like Jaxon to continue building a championship contender. He's proven himself as one of the elite receivers in the game.”

— Pete Carroll, Head Coach, Seattle Seahawks

“This deal sets a new standard for wide receiver contracts. Jaxon has earned every penny of it with his incredible production and leadership on the field.”

— Adam Schefter, NFL Insider, ESPN

What’s next

The Seahawks will look to build around Smith-Njigba as the centerpiece of their offense, with the team needing to fill other key positions like running back in the upcoming draft and free agency.

The takeaway

By locking up their star receiver long-term, the Seahawks have ensured they can continue competing at a high level on offense despite the departure of key pieces. Smith-Njigba's record-breaking deal underscores the premium placed on elite pass-catching talent in today's NFL.