3 Seahawks who are poised for expanded roles in 2023, and 1 who might not
By Almar Reyes
Seahawks WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba - WR2 production?
The Seattle Seahawks came into the 2023 NFL Rookie Draft with a handful of early-round draft picks. Picking twice in the first round with the 5th overall and the 20th overall picks, provided the team with a lot of opportunities to make some noise. Seattle nabbed the best cornerback in the draft Devon Witherspoon to help shore up their secondary. Then, they proceeded to shock everyone when they decided to pick the best wide receiver in the draft, Jaxon Smith-Njigba with the 20th overall pick.
In the 2023 NFL Rookie Draft, the Seattle Seahawks entered with several early round draft picks, giving them ample opportunities to make significant moves. The team made an impact by having two first-round selections, picking fifth overall and later at the 20th spot. With these choices, the Seahawks aimed to address key areas and improve their roster.
To bolster their secondary, Seattle made a notable move by selecting Devon Witherspoon, widely regarded as the top cornerback in the draft. With his skills and potential, Witherspoon is expected to contribute immediately and help solidify the Seahawks' pass defense.
In a surprising turn of events, the Seahawks caused a stir by selecting Jaxon Smith-Njigba, widely considered the best wide receiver in the draft, with the 20th overall pick. This unexpected move generated excitement among fans and experts alike, as Smith-Njigba brings his playmaking abilities and dynamic presence to the team's receiving corps.
The addition of Jaxon Smith-Njigba to the Seattle Seahawks' pass-catching corps elevates their offensive potential and creates a formidable threat for opposing defenses. With Smith-Njigba's presence, the Seahawks' offense gains multiple options on the field, making it more challenging for defenses to key in on a single receiver.
This newfound depth in the receiving corps will alleviate some of the defensive focus on DK Metcalf, the Seahawks' imposing wide receiver. By drawing attention away from Metcalf, Smith-Njigba presence opens up opportunities for both receivers to make plays and puts additional strain on opposing defenses. Furthermore, Smith-Njigba's arrival allows the veteran Tyler Lockett to have some well-deserved rest at crucial moments, ensuring his longevity and effectiveness throughout the season.