A narrative has been forming for the Seattle Seahawks, and one that I do not particularly think is all too fair. It revolves around rookie wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and his lack of production thus far in the season.
The Seahawks took JSN in the first round of the 2023 NFL draft with the expectation he would become the bonafide No. 3 receiver behind DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. So far, JSN only has 12 receptions for 62 yards this year.
Although these are hardly difference making numbers, there is little reason for concern among his teammates. According to Metcalf himself, it’s merely a matter of time.
DK Metcalf, when asked today about Jaxon Smith-Njigba's slower-than-expected start, said "it’s just a matter of time before he just pops."
Wrote about one potential root cause of JSN's underwhelming production and a few other numbers that have stood out: https://t.co/gRIbRX9PV1
— Brady Henderson (@BradyHenderson) October 11, 2023
Metcalf is right. The cause for alarm is rather premature, even if a quarter of the season is complete. The Seahawks have had to deal with multiple injuries to their offensive line, leaving a patchwork of starters and backups. Although they have played admirably well, they are being helped out immensely by extra tight ends, a quick passing game, and a ground attack.
Simply put: there hasn’t been room for a deep passing attack to develop so far. Even Metcalf and Lockett haven’t seen many deep shots.
As of right now, any concern about JSN should be tempered at best. Unless his wrist is genuinely far more injured than previously let on (no evidence to suggest this right now), then we should listen to Metcalf when he preaches patience.
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