Fresh off a dominant 2025 season where he led the NFL in receiving yards and secured the AP Offensive Player of the Year award, Seattle Seahawks star Jaxon Smith-Njigba has set his sights on becoming the highest-paid wide receiver in league history.
In a recent interview, the 24-year-old receiver stated plainly that he believes he deserves to reset the market, targeting a figure that would surpass the current benchmark set by Cincinnati’s Ja’Marr Chase.
The New WR Hierarchy: Chase vs. JSN
The wide receiver market underwent a seismic shift in March 2025 when the Bengals locked up Ja’Marr Chase to a massive extension. If Smith-Njigba wants the top spot, he is looking at a minimum average annual value (AAV) of $40.3 million.
Current Top Receiver Salaries (AAV):
- Ja’Marr Chase (Bengals): $40.25 Million
- Justin Jefferson (Vikings): $35.0 Million
- CeeDee Lamb (Cowboys): $34.0 Million
- D.K. Metcalf (Steelers): $33.0 Million
Note: The market has seen significant movement recently, including D.K. Metcalf’s trade and subsequent extension with the Steelers.
Why the Rams are Watching: The Puka Nacua Factor
Smith-Njigba isn’t the only young star due for a payday. Across the NFC West, the Los Angeles Rams are navigating a similar situation with Puka Nacua, who led the NFL in receptions (129) and yards per game (107.2) in 2025.
- The Lever: Because Nacua was a fifth-round pick, the Rams do not have a fifth-year option on his rookie deal. His contract expires after the 2026 season.
- The Interdependence: If JSN signs for $40.3M+ first, Nacua’s camp will likely use that as the floor for negotiations. Conversely, if Nacua resets the market, JSN’s price tag will only climb.
JSN’s “Golden Year” (2025 Stats)
- Receiving Yards: 1,793 (NFL Leader)
- Receptions: 119
- Touchdowns: 10
- Accolades: AP Offensive Player of the Year, First-team All-Pro