Jaxon Smith-Njigba is simply on another planet than the rest of the NFL's wide receivers right now — and there's nothing NFL defenses can do about it
What a difference a year makes. This time last year, the Seattle Seahawks offense was fresh off of a 56-yard rushing performance with 3 turnovers against the San Francisco 49ers. Their 2023 first-round draft choice, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, was fresh off of his fifth sub-60 yard performance in six games to start the season. In his seventh contest, he'd post three catches for nine yards.
This year, it's a whole different stratosphere for the former Ohio State star. Now the leading man in Seattle's passing attack, Smith-Njigba has posted more 100+ yard receiving performances (4) than he had all year last year (3). His worst single-game performance from a yardage perspective through six games is 79 yards.
But what if I told you the yardage numbers are only half the story? The efficiency numbers put Smith-Njigba into a class of his own.
Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is shredding every coverage variation known to man
Seattle's star receiver is averaging nearly four and a half yards receiving per route run through the first six weeks of the season. There are no other NFL receivers within a yard of that mark on a per-route basis thus far, with Puka Nacua ranking second in the NFL. Only four other receivers other than Nacua are within two yards of Smith-Njigba's 4.43 yards per route run total.
It's an incredible pace. And even if the monster performances stop coming so freely, it's hard to imagine a healthy Smith-Njigba not landing amongst the league leaders with this rate of production through the first third of the season.
And again, it's what he's doing against all kinds of coverage variations that makes this performance that much more sensational.
2025 NFL Receiving Leaders Through Week 6
- Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Seattle: 696 receiving yards
- Puka Nacua, Los Angeles: 616 receiving yards
- George Pickens, Dallas: 525 receiving yards
- Emeka Egbuka, Tampa Bay (R): 469 receiving yards
- Ja'Marr Chase, Cincinnati: 468 receiving yards
https://youtube.com/shorts/3ng5qNSWspk?si=kejPRGVzbjgPlLbm
Among the top-20 wide receivers in football for yards per route run, Smith-Njigba ranks third in yards per route run against man coverage. He's first against zone coverage. Press him at the line of scrimmage? No problem, he's first there, too. And don't you dare play him soft and give him space — where he's averaging nearly two and a half yards more per route run than any other qualifying receiver through six weeks.
To put it plainly, Jaxon Smith-Njigba is in his own universe right now. And no one has figured out a way to stop him.
Defensive Line Faces Challenges Without Nick Bosa and Fred Warner, but Kyle Shanahan Stays Optimistic
The San Francisco 49ers’ defense is facing significant hurdles with key players Nick Bosa and Fred Warner sidelined due to injuries. Despite the absence of these two cornerstone defenders, head coach Kyle Shanahan has remained optimistic about the team’s ability to overcome the challenges and continue performing at a high level.
"Of course, losing guys like Nick and Fred is a blow," Shanahan said during a press conference. "But this team has always found a way to step up when needed. We have a lot of talented players who are ready to take on bigger roles and fill the gaps."
Bosa, one of the league’s most dominant pass rushers, and Warner, a leader on the field with his ability to read offenses and make crucial tackles, are vital components of the 49ers’ defense. Their absence has forced others to step up, and while the team has faced difficulties in maintaining the same level of intensity and execution, Shanahan believes in the depth and resilience of the squad.
"Every team faces adversity, and this is our time to show what we’re made of," Shanahan continued. "We’ve got some young guys and veterans who are ready for the challenge. The key is to stay focused, keep improving, and execute the game plan."
The 49ers have made adjustments to their defensive lineup in light of the injuries, and players like Dre Greenlaw and Javon Kinlaw have taken on more responsibility. Shanahan expressed confidence that the defensive unit can still be effective, even without Bosa and Warner on the field.
"Our defense has been one of the best in the league, and we’re going to keep pushing forward," Shanahan added. "Injuries are part of the game, but I know this team is capable of stepping up when it matters most."
As the 49ers prepare for their next matchup, the team remains focused on working together and overcoming the challenges posed by the injuries to their star players. With Shanahan’s confidence and the talent on the roster, the 49ers’ defense will look to continue their strong performance despite the obstacles.
