Seattle Seahawks sophomore wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba has seen improvement this season as a sophomore. The former Ohio State star currently ranks first on the team in receptions (50) by a wide margin, while DK Metcalf, who missed two games due to injury, is 15 catches (35) behind him. Smith-Njigba also ranks tied with Metcalf in targets (75) and receiving yards (568).
One of Smith-Njigba's best assets heading into the draft was his versatility. Smith-Njigba is a technically advanced young player and can play all three wide receiver positions (X, Z, slot). It turns out he was particularly dominant at one of those offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb positions this season.
Smith-Njigba is reported to have recorded 43 receptions from the slot position Professional football focus. He leads all receivers in catches from the slot. Smith-Njigba also leads all wideouts from the slot in receiving yards (514), first downs (25) and catches of more than 15 (13).
Jaxon Smith-Njigba when in the slot this season:
🔹 43 receptions (1st)
🔹 514 reception yards (1st)
🔹 25 first downs (1st)
🔹 13 catches for 15 yards (1st)— PFF SEA Seahawks (@PFF_Seahawks)
Grubb would be wise to continue moving Smith-Njigba around the offensive formation in search of advantageous matchups. PFF's charting data shows that JSN played 434 snaps from the slot and just 96 out wide as a boundary receiver. This shows that Grubb understands how to properly utilize Smith-Njigba's abilities.
