Jaxon Smith-Njigba Injury Update, What Happened To Jaxon Smith-Njigba? Is Jaxon Smith-Njigba Injured?
by Alaguvelan M
Updated Aug 23, 2023
Who is Jaxon Smith-Njigba?
Jaxon Smith-Njigba makes his mark as an American football wide receiver donning the Seattle Seahawks jersey in the National Football League (NFL). The Ohio State alumnus made waves during his college years, etching his name into the record books with feats like 15 catches in a single game (twice) and a staggering 1,606 receiving yards in the 2021 season. Smith-Njigba's NFL journey commenced when the Seahawks chose him in the first round of the 2023 NFL Draft.
Emerging from the vibrant city of Dallas, Texas, Smith-Njigba's football journey began at Rockwall High School. As a highly-regarded five-star recruit, he clinched the top spot among wide receivers in the 2020 class. Opting for Ohio State over offers from football powerhouses like Alabama, Clemson, and Georgia, Smith-Njigba set the stage for his collegiate journey.
His impact was immediate upon entering Ohio State. A freshman starter in all 14 games, Smith-Njigba made his presence felt by capturing 56 passes for 916 yards and securing six touchdowns. His prowess earned him the prestigious title of Big Ten Freshman of the Year.
However, it was in his sophomore year that Smith-Njigba truly broke out. His record-breaking performance included a phenomenal 95 receptions for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns. Garnering the status of a consensus All-American, he achieved the remarkable feat of being crowned the Biletnikoff Award winner, solidifying his position as the nation's premier receiver.
After his sophomore year, Smith-Njigba made the bold decision to declare for the NFL Draft. His prospects were promising, with projections placing him as a first-round pick. True to expectations, the Seattle Seahawks eagerly selected him with the 20th overall pick, recognizing his potential to reshape their receiving landscape.
Smith-Njigba's versatility shines on the field, as he navigates various positions with ease. Celebrated for his speed, adept route-running, and impeccable catching ability, he brings a comprehensive skill set to the game. His prowess extends beyond receptions, as he demonstrates strong blocking capabilities.
Anticipated to make an immediate impact in the NFL, Smith-Njigba carries the potential to ascend to stardom within the league. As his journey unfolds, he stands poised to carve a significant niche as a prominent receiver.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Injury Update
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who has shone brightly during Seahawks' training camp, faces a hurdle now as he is set to miss out on some action. The Ohio State rookie receiver will be sidelined due to a wrist injury he sustained in the recent preseason victory against Dallas.
Having been the 20th overall pick in this year's draft, Smith-Njigba now grapples with what Seahawks coach Pete Carroll terms as "a slight fracture" in his wrist. The injury was incurred during his 48-yard reception in the first half of Saturday's game.
Carroll explains, "He's scheduled for surgery with a hand specialist. We're being cautious to ensure his safe and swift return. We're hopeful about a recovery period of three to four weeks, but it's a waiting game for now."
When asked about Smith-Njigba's potential availability for the September 10 opener against the Rams, Carroll's response carries a note of optimism, "We're keeping our hopes up; let's wait and see."
Carroll clarifies that the injury transpired at the conclusion of Smith-Njigba's impressive catch-and-run play. "He momentarily put his hand down upon landing and got it wrong," Carroll details.
Yet, Smith-Njigba isn't the sole receiver grappling with an injury. Second-year wideout Dareke Young, who made a comeback from a hip injury last week and participated in the game, continues to struggle with the ailment and might necessitate surgical intervention. Carroll had earlier hinted at the possibility of a sports hernia issue during the camp. Explaining Young's situation, Carroll states, "He's dealing with this abductor matter that requires serious attention; surgery might be on the cards."
On a more optimistic note, Cade Johnson, who left the field in the Seahawks' preseason opener with a concussion and was taken to Harborview Medical Center on a stretcher, returns to practice and is expected to participate in the upcoming preseason finale.
Easop Winson Jr., who was absent from the previous weekend's game due to a groin injury, is back in practice. However, Cody Thompson, who suffered a shoulder injury in Saturday's game, is not currently participating in practice. Carroll remains pragmatic, noting, "We're taking it one day at a time to gauge his progress and the possibility of his return for the weekend."
As for three other 2023 draft picks, defensive linemen Cam Young (calf) and Mike Morris (shoulder), along with running back Kenny McIntosh (knee), their journey to recovery continues as they remain sidelined due to injuries. Despite these setbacks, the trio is anticipated to feature in the forthcoming preseason game.
Carroll delves into the specifics, sharing, "Mike underwent a minor procedure yesterday to assess his response; he's contending with an older shoulder issue that's causing discomfort. There's a concern, and it's still quite tender. Cam is dealing with a persistent calf problem; we're hoping for a return next week. Neither of them is expected to be ready for action this week."
What Happened To Jaxon Smith-Njigba?
The Seattle Seahawks were dealt a significant blow on Tuesday as their wide receiver corps faced a major setback. First-round rookie Jaxon Smith-Njigba's promising start will be put on hold due to necessary wrist surgery. Head coach Pete Carroll disclosed that a "slight fracture" prompted this course of action, and the hopeful timeline anticipates his return in "3-to-4 weeks."
Reports suggest that Smith-Njigba suffered the injury during a tackle, tumbling to the ground after executing a dynamic 48-yard catch-and-run against the Dallas Cowboys last Saturday night. Unfortunately, his participation in the game ended after this incident.
With less than three weeks remaining until the regular season opener against the Los Angeles Rams, the likelihood of Smith-Njigba's absence in Week 1 is quite high. The worst-case scenario could see him placed on short-term injured reserve, sidelining him for four games and postponing his availability until after the team's bye week.
As Smith-Njigba embarks on his recovery journey, compounded by the absence of Dee Eskridge due to injury and suspension, and Dareke Young potentially facing surgery for an abductor concern, the spotlight turns to Jake Bobo, who might emerge as the WR3 by default come opening day.
Is Jaxon Smith-Njigba Injured?
The participation of Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the promising rookie wide receiver for the Seattle Seahawks, in the opening week of the 2023 NFL regular season hangs in the balance due to a wrist injury.
Adam Schefter indicate that Smith-Njigba sustained the wrist injury during the Seahawks' preseason clash against the Dallas Cowboys last Saturday. Scheduled for surgery in Philadelphia on Tuesday, his availability for Week 1 remains uncertain and contingent on the surgical outcome.
Selected at the 20th overall spot, Smith-Njigba became the Seahawks' top pick for a wide receiver in the 2023 NFL draft, potentially bolstering their already formidable receiving corps.
With DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett already elevating Seattle's position among the league's top receiving teams, Smith-Njigba's inclusion was poised to give quarterback Geno Smith an explosive slot option.
Initial assessments of Smith-Njigba's performance were encouraging, as he showcased his talents in training camp and secured six catches for 73 yards in the Seahawks' initial two preseason games. The Seahawks now confront the possibility of commencing the 2023 season without this rookie standout, despite acknowledging the inherent injury risks when selecting him.
Smith-Njigba garnered significant attention for his stellar 2021 season at Ohio State, amassing 95 receptions for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns. However, he encountered setbacks in the subsequent season due to a hamstring injury, limiting him to just three games with five catches for 43 yards.
Nevertheless, Smith-Njigba's caliber was indisputable, cementing his status as a first-round choice in the 2023 NFL draft. The Seahawks demonstrated their confidence in him by selecting him before other receivers.
Smith-Njigba's potential absence strikes a blow for the Seahawks, though it's worth noting that Geno Smith delivered a career-best performance last season without the assistance of JSN.
Guiding the offense primarily through Metcalf and Lockett, Smith's impressive accomplishments earned him his first Pro Bowl selection. He led the league with a completion rate of 69.8% and recorded 4,282 passing yards, 30 touchdowns, and 11 interceptions. Furthermore, Smith guided the Seahawks to a 9-8 record and a playoff berth, defying predictions that had labeled them as one of the league's weakest teams.
These successes underscore the potential for Smith and the Seattle offense to excel without Smith-Njigba, although his absence would undoubtedly remove a dynamic element from the unit.
Smith-Njigba has a window of around three weeks to recuperate before the Seahawks' 2023 regular-season debut against the Los Angeles Rams on September 10. Otherwise, Seattle will enter the fray with Metcalf and Lockett as their primary wideouts, leaving much to be desired in terms of depth.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Career
Jaxon Smith-Njigba is an American football player who currently plays as a wide receiver for Ohio State Buckeyes. He is known for his exceptional speed, agility, and his ability to make big plays on the field.
He attended Rockwall High School, where he played football and was a standout athlete. During his high school career, he recorded over 3,000 receiving yards and 35 touchdowns, earning him a reputation as one of the best wide receivers in the state.
After graduating from high school, Smith-Njigba committed to playing football for Ohio State University. In his freshman year, he played in all eight games and recorded 49 receptions for 729 yards and six touchdowns. He was named the Big Ten Freshman of the Week twice and was also named to the All-Big Ten Freshman team.
In his sophomore year, Smith-Njigba continued to impress, recording 95 receptions for 1,119 yards and six touchdowns. He was named the Big Ten Receiver of the Year and was also named to the First-Team All-Big Ten.
Smith-Njigba is widely considered one of the top wide receivers in college football and is expected to have a successful career at the professional level. His speed, agility, and ability to make big plays on the field make him a valuable asset to any team.
Off the field, Smith-Njigba is known for his dedication and hard work. He is a humble and respectful individual who is committed to his team and his sport. He has a bright future ahead of him and is sure to continue to make a name for himself in the world of football.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba Injury Update - FAQs
Jaxon Smith-Njigba has suffered a wrist injury, requiring surgery, and his availability is currently uncertain.
The injury is believed to have occurred during a tackle in the preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys.
The initial estimate for his return is around "3-to-4 weeks," though it will depend on how the surgery goes.
Yes, there is a possibility, but it remains uncertain and hinges on the success of his surgery and subsequent recovery.
Smith-Njigba's absence presents a challenge, as he was expected to contribute to the team's receiving corps and provide an explosive option.