NFL players are often judged by the statistics posted in the box score. Analyzing the film can offer a friendly reminder that there are multiple ways to impact a game. Seattle Seahawks sophomore wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba offered a terrific example of just that in Sunday’s disappointing Week 5 defeat to the New York Giants.
Seahawks quarterback Geno Smith rushed for a season-high 72 yards against the Giants. Smith’s longest pick-up of the afternoon went for a 32-yard gain. It was his largest rushing output since becoming Seattle’s starting quarterback in 2022, and his longest individual run, too. Smith-Njigba aided that gain by running a deep route and calling for the ball despite knowing his quarterback was scrambling, pulling two secondary defenders with him. and away from his vet QB.
sold the pass the entire way 😮
(h/t @sharpclarkenfl) pic.twitter.com/qL9fJh6mgU
— NFL (@NFL) October 7, 2024
Unfortunately, it wasn’t all positive for JSN on Sunday. The second-year wideout dropped a critical third-down pass from Smith late in the fourth quarter that directly led to the block field-goal attempt on the ensuing fourth down.
Smith-Njigba has recorded 29 receptions for 289 yards and one touchdown through five contests. Smith-Njigba and the entire Seahawks offense will receive a quick opportunity to enjoy a bounce-back performance later this week versus the San Francisco 49ers on Thursday Night Football in a critical NFC West showdown.
