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Seahawks WR depth chart: What Rashid Shaheed trade means for Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Sam Darnold weapons | Sporting News

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Thursday, November 6th 2025 at 10:47 GMT by Sporting News
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Seahawks Wide Receiver Depth Chart: Rashid Shaheed Trade and Roster Overview

The Seattle Seahawks’ wide‑receiver room has undergone a noticeable shift this off‑season, primarily due to the acquisition of former San Francisco 49ers target Rashid Shaheed. The trade, executed in March 2023, added a proven veteran to a group that already boasts star playmakers DK Metcalf, Tyler Lockett, and rookie breakout Jaxon Smith‑Njigba. With the trade, Seattle’s depth chart now positions Shaheed as a potential third‑wide‑receiver option behind Metcalf and Lockett, while Smith‑Njigba and other young players vie for the remaining roles.

Trade Details and Contract

Seattle traded a conditional 2024 seventh‑round pick to the 49ers for Shaheed, who signed a one‑year contract worth $2.75 million. The contract includes a $550 k signing bonus and $2.25 million guaranteed in base salary. In return, the 49ers received a future draft asset that could be upgraded if Shaheed meets certain performance benchmarks—such as 50 catches or 500 receiving yards in 2023. The trade was motivated by Seattle’s desire for a reliable slot receiver and the 49ers’ need to free up cap space to accommodate upcoming free‑agent signings.

Player Profile

Shaheed entered the NFL in 2014 as an undrafted free agent with the New York Giants, where he quickly proved himself as a dependable slot threat. Over eight seasons with the Giants, he recorded 284 receptions for 4,020 yards and 18 touchdowns. He spent his final three seasons with the 49ers, posting a career‑best 58 catches for 860 yards and seven scores in 2022. His speed, route‑running precision, and ability to find soft spots in zone coverage make him an attractive asset for a pass‑heavy offense.

Depth Chart Breakdown

Key takeaways:

• Metcalf and Lockett continue as the duo that drives the Seahawks’ aerial attack, both producing numbers that rival the league’s elite.
• Shaheed is expected to bring a different skill set—quick releases and precise routes in the slot—to balance the offense and relieve the outside receivers.
• Smith‑Njigba, drafted in the first round in 2023, has quickly proven himself as a versatile target; his future will likely involve a larger role if the veteran group steps down.
• Johnson and Sutton provide depth and have the opportunity to step up if injuries or bye weeks hit the starting lineup.

Potential Scenarios for 2024

1. Rashid Shaheed Steps into a Larger Role – If the Seahawks keep their 2023 offensive coordinator, Jim O’Connor, who emphasizes quick‑release routes, Shaheed’s skill set will mesh well. He could become a reliable third‑wide‑receiver option, especially in two‑point‑conversion situations where his route precision is key.
2. Emergence of Jaxon Smith‑Njigba – If Smith‑Njigba continues his rookie breakout, he might outpace Shaheed for the third‑receiver slot. The Seahawks could see the veteran being moved to a backup or special‑teams role, but that would be unlikely given his contract value.
3. Free‑Agent Acquisition or Trade – The Seahawks have been active in the free‑agent market, targeting potential complementary receivers such as Calvin Ridley. Should a trade or signing occur, the depth chart could shift again, potentially adding a fourth wide receiver.

Off‑Field Context

Seattle’s offensive line has improved in 2023, helping both Metcalf and Lockett gain more open field. Additionally, the team’s special‑teams coordinator, Mike Rash, has been praised for optimizing the use of their depth receivers in the return game, providing Shaheed and Smith‑Njigba with extra opportunities to contribute.

The Seahawks are also focusing on quarterback stability, with Geno Smith receiving a contract extension to provide continuity behind the center. A healthy and consistent quarterback will likely help the receivers perform at a higher level, allowing the team to rely on its depth chart rather than a single playmaker.

Final Thoughts

The addition of Rashid Shaheed has broadened the Seahawks’ pass‑catching arsenal and added a veteran presence to a roster that is already rich with talent. With a depth chart that balances experience and youth, the Seahawks are well‑positioned to stay competitive in the NFC West. Whether Shaheed can become a regular starter or remain a solid backup will hinge on preseason performances, the health of the offensive line, and the coaching staff’s confidence in his abilities. As the season approaches, fans can expect an exciting blend of star power from Metcalf and Lockett, combined with the steady production that Shaheed and Smith‑Njigba are poised to bring to the Emerald City’s home stadium.