Jaxon Smith-Njigba Wins Offensive Player of the Year

A Season to Remember

This season, Jaxon Smith-Njigba didn't merely play impressive football; he made history. The Seattle Seahawks wide receiver achieved the honor of Offensive Player of the Year (OPOY) and now has an opportunity to cap off his exceptional season by winning the Super Bowl this weekend.

Smith-Njigba's season was so extraordinary that people across the NFL could not overlook it. In only his third season in the league, he emerged as one of the best players, not just among the wide receivers.

The Awards He Won

Smith-Njigba won The Sporting News NFL Offensive Player of the Year, becoming the first player from the Seahawks franchise to achieve this accolade. He also received the Pro Football Writers of America (PFWA) Offensive Player of the Year award, making him only the second Seahawk to ever receive this honor. His recognition reflects just how remarkable his season truly was.

The Stats That Shocked the League

Smith-Njigba's statistics highlight the narrative of his excellence:

• 119 catches
• 1,793 receiving yards (the highest in the NFL)
• 10 touchdowns
• More than 105 yards per game

Almost half of Seattle's total receiving yards originated from him alone. Defenses knew he would be their primary target each week, yet they were still unable to contain him.

Why Voters Picked Him

What distinguished Smith-Njigba was his remarkable consistency. In 16 out of 17 games, he recorded at least 5 catches and 72 yards. He consistently performed at a high level each week.

Even more astounding? He accomplished this while playing on a 14–3 Seahawks team that lacked many standout offensive players. The Seahawks secured the NFC West title and reached the Super Bowl largely because Smith-Njigba was their driving force.

Changing the Seahawks' Identity

Traditionally, Seattle has been recognized as a run-first team. However, that shifted this season. The offense was structured around Smith-Njigba and his quarterback, Sam Darnold. Exciting plays, critical catches, and consistent output compelled defenses to center their focus on him. Thanks to his brilliance, the Seahawks transitioned into a team that relied heavily on their passing game, and it proved effective.

One More Goal: Win It All

Now, Smith-Njigba is on his way to the Super Bowl with a chance to complete one of the most outstanding seasons ever by a wide receiver. With an OPOY trophy already in his possession, securing a championship would immortalize his season as legendary.