Jaxon Smith-Njigba is an American professional football wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks of the National Football League (NFL). Selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft, he entered the league with one of the most polished résumés of any receiver in his class. Renowned for elite route-running, exceptional hands, and advanced football intelligence, Smith-Njigba represents the modern NFL receiver who wins with precision, awareness, and consistency rather than raw speed alone.
Quick Bio
- Full Name: Jaxon Smith-Njigba
- Date of Birth: February 14, 2002
- Age (2025): 23 years old
- Birthplace: Rockwall, Texas, USA
- Nationality: American
- Ethnicity: African-American
- Profession: Professional Football Player (Wide Receiver)
- Team (2025): Seattle Seahawks – NFL
- College: Ohio State Buckeyes
- Jersey Number: 11
Age, Birthday and Early Life
Jaxon Smith-Njigba was born on February 14, 2002, in Rockwall, Texas. He grew up in a disciplined, sports-oriented household where structure, preparation, and accountability were emphasized from an early age. Football quickly became his primary focus, though his athletic development was shaped by exposure to multiple sports.
He attended Rockwall High School, where he emerged as one of the nation’s top wide receiver prospects. Unlike many recruits who relied on raw athleticism, Smith-Njigba distinguished himself through advanced route-running, spatial awareness, and consistency. His ability to separate from defenders made him a reliable target at every level of the field.
By the time he graduated, he was recognized as a technically elite receiver with long-term potential, earning offers from major college football programs across the country.
Parents, Siblings and Family Background
Jaxon comes from a close-knit family that played a central role in his development. His father, Tiger Smith, has been a guiding presence throughout his football journey, emphasizing fundamentals, discipline, and mental toughness. Family values and structure remain important pillars in his life.
He is the younger brother of Canaan Smith-Njigba, a professional baseball player, reflecting the family’s strong multi-sport athletic background. The competitive yet supportive environment helped shape Jaxon’s work ethic and focus.
Height, Weight and Body Stats
- Height: 6 ft 1 in (185 cm)
- Weight: 196 lb (89 kg)
- Build: Athletic, balanced wide receiver frame
- Playing Style: Precision route-runner, slot and inside-out receiver
- Strength Traits: Hands, route detail, body control, football IQ
College Career and Achievements
Smith-Njigba played college football at Ohio State University, joining one of the most competitive wide receiver rooms in the country. Despite sharing targets with multiple future NFL stars, he steadily earned trust through reliability and technical mastery.
His defining performance came in the Rose Bowl following the 2021 season, where he delivered one of the greatest games in college football history. Smith-Njigba recorded 347 receiving yards and three touchdowns, setting an FBS bowl-game record and showcasing elite separation and awareness.
Injuries limited his final collegiate season, but his film and production left little doubt about his readiness for the professional level. Scouts consistently praised his polish, consistency, and ability to thrive in timing-based offenses.
- Ohio State: Key contributor in elite receiver corps
- Signature Moment: Record-setting Rose Bowl performance
- Skill Reputation: One of the most refined WR prospects of his class
- Draft Outcome: First-round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft
NFL Career and Professional Timeline
- 2019–2022: Ohio State Buckeyes – collegiate career
- January 2022: Historic Rose Bowl performance
- April 2023: Drafted Round 1 by Seattle Seahawks
- 2023–Present: Seattle Seahawks – featured wide receiver
Personality and Off-Field Life
Smith-Njigba is known for his calm confidence, professionalism, and meticulous preparation. Coaches and teammates frequently highlight his understanding of coverages and attention to detail. Off the field, he maintains a disciplined lifestyle centered on recovery, film study, and long-term career development.
Social Media Presence
Jaxon maintains a focused and professional presence on social media. His platforms primarily feature game highlights, training routines, team culture, and selective personal moments, reflecting a brand built on performance rather than controversy.
- Instagram: Football highlights, workouts, Seahawks updates
- X (Twitter): Career milestones and football-related posts
Latest Updates
- As of the 2025 NFL season, Smith-Njigba is a core part of Seattle’s offense.
- His role has expanded with increased slot and intermediate-route usage.
- He continues to earn recognition for reliability and route precision.
- Analysts project him as a long-term high-volume NFL receiver.
Trivia and Facts
- Holds the FBS record for most receiving yards in a bowl game
- Brother is a professional baseball player
- Wins primarily with technique rather than speed metrics
- Excels in the slot but can line up across formations
- Considered one of the safest WR prospects of his draft class
FAQs About Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Who does Jaxon Smith-Njigba play for?
He plays for the Seattle Seahawks in the NFL.
Where did Jaxon Smith-Njigba play college football?
He played at Ohio State University.
What makes him stand out as a receiver?
Elite route-running, strong hands, football intelligence, and consistency.
Was Jaxon Smith-Njigba a first-round draft pick?
Yes, he was selected in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
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