The good, the bad, and the ugly in Seattle Seahawks Week 7 victory over Cardinals
- A rookie arrives
- The run defense is a bit leakier
- Too many injuries
By Almar Reyes
The good: The rookie has arrived
When the Seattle Seahawks made the intriguing decision to select wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba with the 20th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, it raised more than a few eyebrows. After all, the Seahawks already boasted the formidable duo of DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett in their receiving corps. Many fans and analysts questioned why Pete Carroll and John Schneider opted for another wideout when other areas of the team seemed in need of reinforcement.
However, the unfolding of the 2023 NFL season has revealed the wisdom behind that decision, and it all came to fruition in a remarkable moment during the Seahawks' recent game.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the highly-touted rookie from Ohio State, showed the world why he was worth that first-round selection. In a game where DK Metcalf was sidelined due to injury, Smith-Njigba seized the opportunity to prove his worth. His first-ever NFL touchdown was not just a personal milestone but a testament to the scouting acumen of the Seahawks' front office.
Stepping onto the field with the weight of expectations and skepticism from some quarters, Smith-Njigba demonstrated his potential. His speed, route-running precision, and strong hands were on full display as he hauled in a crucial touchdown pass, instantly winning over the hearts of Seahawks fans.
What sets Smith-Njigba apart is his ability to adapt and perform under pressure. In the absence of a star like DK Metcalf, the rookie didn't shy away from the spotlight but embraced it. His performance wasn't merely about catching a touchdown; it was a declaration of readiness, a statement that he could be counted on when the team needed him most.
The Seahawks' gamble in selecting Smith-Njigba is now paying off. His presence adds depth to an already potent receiving corps, offering the team valuable insurance against injuries and elevating the level of competition within the group. This kind of depth is essential in the NFL, where injuries can quickly change the dynamics of a team's season.