Two-time Pro Bowler named Seattle Seahawks most underpaid player

Seattle Seahawks star wide receiver Jaxson Smith-Njigba has emerged as one of the NFL's top talents while playing on his rookie contract. Over his first three years in the league, Smith-Njigba has earned accolades that include two Pro Bowl selections and a First-team All-Pro nod. His exceptional performance last season was highlighted by leading the league in receiving yards and being named the NFL Offensive Player of the Year. Moreover, he played a key role in helping the Seahawks clinch their second Super Bowl title. Despite his meteoric rise and impressive contributions, Smith-Njigba has been named the Seahawks' most underpaid player. As Brad Gagnon from Bleacher Report points out, he entered the 2025 season as the 48th-highest-paid wide receiver, earning only $4.6 million. This salary is astonishingly modest given that he posted an NFL-best 1,793 receiving yards at the age of 23. The designation of being underpaid is a testament to Smith-Njigba's outstanding value to the Seahawks. His production on the field far exceeds what his rookie contract stipulates, making him arguably one of the biggest bargains in the league. However, this scenario is unlikely to last long, as he is now eligible for a contract extension, which is expected to include a significant salary increase. According to Spotrac, Smith-Njigba's next deal could be worth nearly $38 million per year, ensuring that he will no longer be labeled underpaid. This anticipated contract reflects the Seahawks' commitment to rewarding Smith-Njigba for his exceptional performances and securing a key offensive weapon for the future. As the Seahawks look to build on their recent success, retaining Smith-Njigba with a lucrative extension will be crucial. His impact on the field is invaluable, and the expected contract represents an investment in sustaining the team's competitive edge in the league.