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Sherman Praises Seahawks' Smith-Njigba's 'Untapped Potential'

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  Published in Sports and Competition on Sunday, March 29th 2026 at 14:39 GMT by Sporting News
      Locale: UNITED STATES

Seattle, WA - March 29, 2026 - Two years after being selected 20th overall in the 2023 NFL Draft, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is steadily fulfilling the promise that made him a first-round pick, and according to former Seahawks legend Richard Sherman, the best is yet to come. Sherman, a cornerstone of Seattle's famed "Legion of Boom" defense, recently observed a Seahawks practice and emerged impressed with the young receiver's progress. His assessment? Smith-Njigba possesses "untapped potential" and is poised for significant growth within the Seattle system.

Sherman's comments, initially reported by Seattle Sports' Brock Huard, aren't just casual observation. They carry weight. As a veteran who spent seven seasons dissecting opposing offenses from the cornerback position, Sherman's eye for talent and understanding of what it takes to succeed in the NFL are highly respected. His praise centers around Smith-Njigba's combination of speed and route-running ability - a potent mix for any wide receiver, especially in Seattle's increasingly dynamic offense.

"I think he's got a lot of speed, a lot of speed, and he's a good route runner," Sherman stated. "I think he's just got a lot of growth left, but he's a talented kid. Just gotta keep working on his game. That's what it is. You can't just settle. Gotta keep pushing. Gotta keep grinding."

Initially, the selection of Smith-Njigba raised eyebrows among some analysts. Coming off a dominant 2022 season at Ohio State where he was a Biletnikoff Award finalist, expectations were understandably high. However, his rookie year in 2023 saw a gradual integration into the Seahawks' offense. He wasn't immediately the focal point, and some questioned if he could live up to the draft hype. The Seahawks, already boasting a strong receiving corps with DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett, opted for a measured approach, allowing Smith-Njigba to learn the nuances of the NFL and develop chemistry with quarterback Geno Smith.

That patience appears to be paying dividends. While his 2023 stats - 36 receptions for 457 yards and 2 touchdowns - weren't eye-popping, they represented a solid foundation. More importantly, coaches and teammates observed a noticeable improvement in his confidence, technique, and understanding of the playbook as the season progressed.

Now, heading into his third season, Smith-Njigba is expected to play a more prominent role. With a year of NFL experience under his belt, he's becoming a more complete receiver, adding physicality to his already impressive route-running skills and developing a better understanding of defensive coverages. The Seahawks' offensive coordinator, now entering his second full season with the team, has publicly stated that Smith-Njigba is a key piece of the team's future plans. The scheme is being tailored to maximize his strengths - quick routes, precise cuts, and the ability to find soft spots in the defense.

Beyond the on-field development, Smith-Njigba has also demonstrated a strong work ethic and a commitment to improving. Reports from within the Seahawks facility consistently highlight his dedication to film study and extra practice sessions. This resonates with Sherman, who emphasizes the importance of relentless effort in achieving sustained success. "You can't just settle," Sherman said, a sentiment that reflects the demanding standards he held himself to throughout his own illustrious career.

The Seahawks' passing game is undergoing an evolution. While Metcalf remains the primary deep threat, and Lockett continues to be a reliable possession receiver, Smith-Njigba offers a different dimension - a versatile weapon who can line up in the slot, run short and intermediate routes, and create mismatches against opposing defenses. He's becoming a crucial piece in Seattle's goal to become a consistent contender in the NFC.

Sherman's validation of Smith-Njigba's potential isn't just a boost for the player; it's a signal to the Seahawks fanbase that the team is on the right track. Building through the draft is a cornerstone of Seattle's philosophy, and seeing a first-round pick begin to blossom into a potential star reinforces the effectiveness of that strategy. As Jaxon Smith-Njigba continues to refine his game and unlock his "untapped potential," the Seahawks' offense is poised to become even more formidable.