Tom Brady Perfectly Labels Jaxon Smith-Njigba
In the 2025 NFL season opener, Jaxon Smith-Njigba showcased his remarkable talent as a receiver for the Seattle Seahawks. He significantly outperformed his teammates, with more targets and catches than the entire receiving corps combined. Despite his efforts, Seattle fell short against the San Francisco 49ers, managing only 13 points in the loss.
Tom Brady’s Praise for Jaxon Smith-Njigba
Legendary quarterback Tom Brady, now an analyst for Fox Sports, had high praise for Smith-Njigba’s performance. He described the young receiver’s movement on the field as graceful, likening it to “an ice skater” due to his fluid route-running ability and consistent body control. Brady noted, “His shoulders never dip,” which helps JSN remain elusive and difficult for defenders to read.
Elite Performance Against the Rams
In a standout performance against the Los Angeles Rams, Jaxon Smith-Njigba demonstrated his exceptional receiving skills. He caught a remarkable one-handed pass thrown by quarterback Sam Darnold and later made a spectacular leaping catch in the back of the end zone. Despite taking a hard hit from Rams’ safety Kam Curl, JSN held on to the ball, showcasing both toughness and reliability.
Dynamic Route Running
Brady highlighted an essential aspect of JSN’s game: his ability to run routes without revealing his intentions. His body language remains consistent, making it exceedingly challenging for defenders to anticipate his moves. Jaxon Smith-Njigba excels in running routes at all levels of the field, keeping defensive backs guessing throughout the game.
Impactful Statistics
- Performance: 10 receptions for 153 yards
- Touchdowns: 1
- First Downs: 8 of his catches resulted in first downs
Regardless of the defensive strategies employed against him, Jaxon Smith-Njigba has proven to be a formidable opponent. His combination of quick acceleration and precise route running allows him to exploit defensive weaknesses effectively. As Brady articulated, JSN isn’t just another football player; his unique style and skill set make him a standout receiver in the NFL.