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DAZN News Exclusive: Jaxon Smith-Njigba opens up about Seattle’s rise, Cooper Kupp’s influence, Sam Darnold, leadership and the 2,000-yard chase
Jaxon Smith-Njigba is putting together one of the most dominant seasons by any wide receiver in recent NFL history.
Already the league’s most productive pass-catcher in 2025, the Seattle Seahawks star spoke exclusively with DAZN News about the team’s surprising rise, his evolving leadership role, the impact of Cooper Kupp, his chemistry with Sam Darnold, and the possibility of becoming the first receiver in history to reach 2,000 yards.
'WE FEEL LIKE WE CAN COMPETE WITH ANYBODY' — ON SEATTLE’S UNEXPECTED RISE
Seattle entered the season surrounded by uncertainty. Multiple changes on offense, a new quarterback and a revamped receiver room led many analysts to predict a transition year. Smith-Njigba never saw it that way.
“Honestly, the biggest thing is how close this team is. A lot of people didn’t know what to expect from us with all the changes, but inside the building we always felt confident.”
Steven Bisig-Imagn Images
He credits the coaching staff for simplifying the system and creating an environment where young players could flourish.
“The coaches simplified things, the young guys stepped up, and everyone bought into playing fast and playing for each other.”
Now that Seattle has emerged as one of the NFC’s most dangerous teams, the ambitions inside the locker room have grown.
“Our mindset hasn’t changed — keep stacking wins, keep improving and give ourselves a real chance. The belief is strong. We feel like we can compete with anybody.”
THE COOPER KUPP EFFECT: PRECISION, INTENTION AND MENTORSHIP
If Seattle’s offense has evolved, a major reason is the arrival of Super Bowl MVP Cooper Kupp.
For JSN, sharing a room with one of the best technicians of his generation has been transformative.
“Coop instantly elevates the entire room. I grew up watching him, so working with him every day has been huge for me.”
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The details Kupp focuses on — nuance, timing, coverage manipulation — have accelerated JSN’s development.
“The biggest thing I’ve learned is how intentional he is. Every step, every release, every route has a purpose. He’s helped me slow the game down and be more precise in how I attack coverages.”
SAM DARNOLD: TRUST, TIMING AND A GROWING CONNECTION
Seattle’s offensive resurgence also aligns with the arrival of quarterback Sam Darnold, whose poise and experience have immediately impacted the group.
“Sam brings calmness and confidence. He’s super smart, understands timing and gives us chances to make plays.”
The connection didn’t happen overnight — it was built through offseason work, film sessions and reps.
“He trusts me to be in the right spot, and I trust him to put the ball where it needs to be. That chemistry shows up on Sundays.”
STEPPING INTO THE SPOTLIGHT AFTER METCALF AND LOCKETT
The departures of DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett left Seattle without two franchise pillars.
Rather than creating a void, it opened a door for Smith-Njigba.
“Losing DK and Tyler was big. But it challenged me to grow. More opportunities, but also more responsibility.”
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He doesn’t see it as more freedom — but as a shift in expectations.
“It put me in a spot where I had to be a leader, someone the offense can rely on in big moments. They set the standard, and now it’s my job to carry it forward.”
CONSISTENCY AS A CREED: PREPARATION, DISCIPLINE AND MINDSET
Few receivers in the NFL display the same week-to-week reliability as JSN this season.
“I’m proud of the consistency. That was something I really wanted to improve — showing up every week no matter the matchup or situation.”
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But he’s not satisfied yet.
“There’s still plenty to improve. Details, sharper routes, yards after the catch, finishing plays. I never feel like I’ve arrived. There’s always another level.”
HOW DEFENSES ARE TREATING HIM NOW: MORE ATTENTION, MORE CREATIVITY
With his breakout year, defenses have changed the way they approach him.
“Yeah, I’m seeing more attention — brackets, doubles, different disguises pre-snap.”
Opponents try to force him into crowded areas, but he sees opportunity in the challenge.
“It means I have to be even more disciplined and creative to separate. And it opens things up for my teammates, so I don’t mind it. Whatever helps us win.”
THE 2,000-YARD CHASE — AMBITION VS. TEAM GOALS
Smith-Njigba is on pace for one of the greatest receiving seasons ever.
But how does he handle the possibility of hitting 2,000 yards, something no receiver has ever achieved?
“I’d be lying if I said I never thought about it. Any competitor would love that chance. Records are special.”
Still, the team comes first.
“My focus is winning games and putting this team in the best position to make a real run. If chasing a record lines up with winning, great — but everything starts with helping the team get where we want to go.”
He wants greatness — but not at the expense of Seattle’s ambitions.
“I’m always chasing greatness — but team greatness comes first.”
A STAR ASCENDING — AND A TEAM RISING WITH HIM
Whether the record falls or not, Jaxon Smith-Njigba has fully stepped into superstardom in 2025.
His maturity, consistency, route intelligence and leadership have transformed the Seahawks’ offense — and perhaps their future.
This is more than a breakout season, this is the emergence of a player shaping his team’s identity… and possibly NFL history
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