Ohio State star receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba to miss College Football Playoff matchup versus Georgia See all videos Verified Results Forty 4.59 Seconds The Opening Finals 07/01/19 Shuttle 3.91. In addition, he led a scoring drive to tie the game at 38 before helping the Buckeyes take the lead with 4:22 remaining in the fourth quarter. 11 Utah. Garrett Wilson in 2021 on Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Jaxon Smith-Njigba - College Football Wide receiver - News, Stats, Bio Theres the regular season, and then there is rookie fever season. Jaxon Smith-Njigba now has the most receiving yards (231) in @rosebowlgame history.
The game's only in the third quarter pic.twitter.com/2yNyfpHVXg, It's a new Buckeye record for Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
He has 288 Rec yds (and counting), the most in a game in program history, and he's closing in on the all-time Bowl Game record (308 by Jason Rivers in 2006).
No. He also holds Ohio State records for most catches in a single game with 15 (twice) and most receiving yards in a single season with 1,606 during the 2021 season. Join our linker program. Buckeyes' Jaxon Smith-Njigba returns vs. Iowa Every dynasty GM knows there is no offseason. Resting on the podium overlooking a gaggle of reporters, Jaxon Smith-Njigba looked a composed figure. With his slightly lighter frame, hes not always going to withstand direct contact. GET BEARS NEWS DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX DAILY WITH OUR NEWSLETTER. The NFL offseason is here (silently chuckles on the inside). Over the final five games of the 2021 season, the Texas native accumulated 60 receptions for 958 yards and six touchdowns. Smith-Njigba (hamstring) said he's 100 percent healthy, according to ESPN's Turron Davenport. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. ranks Smith-Njigba as the No. However, he began to heat up again as the half went on. 1 Pick, The Case for Will Levis To Be the No. Rising is a big reason the Utes even reached the Rose Bowl, and he'll undoubtedly be a reason they play in another bowl game next season. You can check them all out in our 2023 dynasty draft kit. He uses violent targeted swats to combat jams and swipes down arms at the catch point. Jaxon Smith-Njigba's NFL Combine profile. Use without license or authorization is expressly prohibited. CBS Sports is a registered trademark of CBS Broadcasting Inc. (Photo: Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire, Getty), wide receiver many Chicago Bears fans have on their radar heading into the 2023 draft is former Ohio State Buckeyes standout, -Njigba played minimally with Bears quarterback. Every Sports Reference Social Media Account, Site Last Updated: Friday, March 3, 6:39AM. Jaxon Smith-Njigba - Wikipedia I think he'll grow into a versatile all-around threat. Smith-Njigba is listed at 6-0, 200 pounds ahead of the NFL Combine. Those results won't be made public. Below Ill take a closer look at Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Some school's results have been altered by retroactive NCAA penalties. Stats at ESPN.com. Additionally, he primarily operated out of the slot in 2021 and frequently had free releases. . If anything, Saturday's game showed us the Buckeyes are in good hands moving forward. He had six drops in his 2021 campaign. Smith-Njigba struggles with injury after first catch (0:19) Jaxon Smith-Njigba takes a big hit on his first catch and doesn't come back in the game until late in the second quarter. 2023 NFL Draft Player Preview: Jaxon Smith-Njigba - WalterFootball.com As it turns out, all the Buckeyes needed was Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Jaxon Smith-njigba Stats, News, Fantasy Football Rankings Jaxon Smith-Njigba Wide Receiver Number # AGE 21 weight 198 lbs. 2023 NFL Draft: Jaxon Smith-Njigba says Packers 'are definitely looking 3 Jordan Addison - USC. Fields has also said in interviews this offseason that he'd like to see JSN come to town, which is all the more reason for him to be onChicago's radar. While Smith-Njigba entered the game leading Ohio State with 80 catches for 1,259 yards, he ranked third behind Olave and Wilson with six touchdowns. He's not going to blow by any defensive backs with his speed, and he's not going to participate in 40-yard dash drills at the combine, so he won't be able to change the narrative that he's a tad slower than some other standouts at WR in this class. See our list of forfeits and vacated games for more details. The Ohio State WR also has great stop-and-start ability and can break at impressive angles with his loose hips. That may give some teams understandable pause. If youre like me and youve had a raging fever since Februarythe only prescription is my rookie primers. In 2021, he was third among FBS wide receivers (minimum 50 targets) in receiving yards (1,595) and second in YAC (790). If the picks line up, adding Smith-Njigba would be an easy decision for Chicago. Smith-Njigba wont burn you in the open field with his raw speed, but that isnt necessary for him to succeed. His size and strong lower body make him a tricky task for corners once the ball is in his hands. Or write about sports? He averaged 8.3 yards after the catch in 2021 and will likely continue that trend in the NFL. Smith-Njigba dominated during his high school career and had over 5,300 receiving yards and 63 receiving touchdowns, with little of that production coming in his freshmen season. Smith-Njigba is undergoing medical testing at the combine, with coaches and front-office executives monitoring the results on the hamstring injury that limited him in 2022. Has good body strength to squirm out of tackles with the coordination to maneuver his frame between defenders. He was a 5-star recruit and the fifth WR in his class. Smith-Njigbas snap at the top of his stem is excellent, which allows him to create easy separation. Jaxon Smith-Njigba: College football career, stats, highlights, records UTAH HITS THE END ZONE FIRST IN THE @rosebowlgame
: ESPN pic.twitter.com/ViwcC57gPb, UTAH 97-YARD KICK RETURN TD pic.twitter.com/Vx5K537La6, CAMERON RISING WOULD NOT BE STOPPED pic.twitter.com/RCIwiwaQQ4. "Why Rockwall WR, Ohio State pledge Jaxon Smith-Njigba's impressive showing at The Opening almost didn't", "Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Riley Dodge win 2019 Tom Landry Awards", "Rockwall wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba named Gatorade Texas football player of the year", "Jaxon Smith-Njigba Named to SI All-American Team", "Ohio State commit Jaxon Smith-Njigba honored as a 2020 All-American", "Jaxon Smith-Njigba poised to become Ohio State's next star at receiver", "Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State Buckeyes, Wide Receiver", "Four-Star Wide Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba Commits To Ohio State", "Former Rockwall star Jaxon Smith-Njigba ready to take on larger role in Ohio State's offense", "Is Jaxon Smith-Njigba headed for breakout game in Ohio State football's season opener against Minnesota? historically in the player's position group (Higher value represents better perfomance). Also, in saying that, it has to be mentioned that he is plenty quick to win in the NFL. A text message to Smith-Njigba has not been returned yet. On the topic of Ohio State, Smith-Njigba expressed regret that he wasn't able to play more. Top WR Prospect Praises Patriots, Mac Jones After Combine Meeting MORE:Follow live updates, highlights from NFL Combine workouts. He missed all but three games of the 2022 season because of a hamstring injury. [11] On November 6, 2021, Smith-Njigba recorded 15 receptions (single game school record) for 240 yards (the second most receiving yards in a game in school history at the time) and one touchdown in a 2617 win against Nebraska. His height, weight, and length are all likely close to the median for wide receivers. Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba to miss Peach Bowl, enter 2023 NFL Draft Smith-Njigba had five receptions for 43 yards this season. Resting on the podium overlooking a gaggle of reporters, Jaxon Smith-Njigba looked a composed figure. ", Smith-Njigba feels 100% after injury-marred '22, Jones: Not fixated on Cowboys' drought, just '23, Sources: Raiders plan franchise tag for Jacobs, WR Addison to Steelers' Pickett: 'Come get me', Wolverines' Turner wows with 4.26 40 at combine, Top QB prospect Levis eager to unleash 'cannon', QB Bennett addresses off-field issues at combine, Campbell: Lamar wants deal done with Ravens, Alabama QB Young undeterred by size questions, The most memorable pre-NFL draft workouts ever: Coaches, scouts, execs make their picks, 2023 NFL franchise tag tracker: Raiders tag Josh Jacobs, the NFL's rushing leader, Browns' offense: Grading positions ahead of free agency, 2023 draft, Jaguars won't spend big, but here are five players they could target in free agency. Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba turns in historic performance vs. Utah The Buckeyes are winning 45-38 thanks to the 85-yard drive capped by Smith-Njigba. 11 Utah and No. 2 wideout in the class, behind Zay Flowers (Boston College), while Todd McShay has him at No. Copyright 2000-2023 Sports Reference LLC. Career; Var 19-20; Var 18-19; Var 17-18; Var 16-17; Career Stats. Stacked formations. Are you looking to contact Customer Support about a subscription or account related question? apped his 2021 campaign with a ridiculous performance in the Rose Bowl against Utah, catching 15 passes for 347 yards and three touchdowns through the air, setting a new record for receiving yards in the legendary bowl game. Stroud To Be the No. Smith-Njigba caught 95 passes for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns in 2021. Devy Spotlight: Jaxon Smith-Njigba - Dynasty Nerds STATISTICS. Rob Oller: OSU receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba lights up Utes and - Yahoo! Pro Football Network, LLC. Is Ohio State WR and 2023 NFL Draft prospect Jaxon Smith-Njigba the best of the bunch from the historic 2021 OSU trio? Jaxon Smith-Njigba: Declares himself 100 percent 6 Ohio State Buckeyes defeated the No. The Ohio State WR is a natural hands catcher, with incredibly smooth body control in the open field when adjusting for throws. With lacking elite explosiveness and burst, Smith-Njigba isnt going to offer a consistent dynamic element downfield. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, CJ Stroud shine, Ohio State tops Utah in Rose Bowl He has very fluid hips. Do you have a sports website? Among other things, Smith-Njigba has shown that while he doesnt have great long speed, he can at least stack defenders in the slot on intermediate routes. The duo didnt work together beyond one season, but it still matters. As a senior, he caught 104 passes for 2,094 yards and 35 scores. Smith-Njigbas very consistent catching the ball in stride to supplement run-after-catch opportunities, and he converts over the middle of the field, even with impending contact. There's no other way to put it. The No. As a matter of policy, Sports Reference only reports the results of games as played on the field. [16] Smith-Njigba's older brother, Canaan Smith-Njigba, plays for the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball (MLB).[17]. Despite having most of his 2022 season wiped out by the injury, the six-foot, 197-pound Smith-Njigba is still a good bet to hear his name called in the first round of the draft, given his past production and the outstanding hands and agility he's displayed when healthy. Latest on Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba including news, stats, videos, highlights and more on ESPN "I just think my playmaking ability is second to none in this draft," he said. They won that game 64-6. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba Makes Captivating Statement Regarding The Green 2023 NFL Draft Highlights: Jaxon. He was replaced by freshman quarterback Bryson Barnes. Vikings Draft Thermometer: WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba When Ohio State wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, a likely first round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, was asked what stood out about his formal interview with the Green and Gold, he said the . Can he make the most of it and command first-round capital like they did? Thoughts from Day 1 of the NFL Combine - Buffalo Rumblings A new home for Michael Thomas? Jaxon Smith-Njigba Height, Weight and Hand Size I don't think he'll be limited to just a slot receiver in the NFL. Has dominated at the college level but doesn't have any elite traits that translate to the pro game - athletically he's good not great, Doesn't have any serious explosion to his game and may find it difficult to separate at the NFL level, Has good but not great speed and doesn't possess elite athletic skills, Has missed a major chunk of his junior year with a hamstring injury - will have to demonstrate this is the exception rather than the rule for him, Has had a few more drops than you would hope for in a top wideout - mostly due to occasional lapses of concentration rather than anything more intrinsic, Spent most of his college career playing in the slot - so it remains to be seen how he will stand up as an outside threat. Smith-Njigba will need to fine-tune his route running to give himself his best chance to succeed at the next level. [12] Later that season, he set both an Ohio State single game and FBS Bowl record for receiving yards with 347 in Ohio State's win in the 2022 Rose Bowl. He also has the most receiving yards in Rose Bowl game history. Here's what NFL.coms draft expert Lance Zierlein had to say about Smith-Njigba's game: "Smith-Njigba is a possession slot receiver who lacks the shake to separate underneath and the speed to run past defenses. 2023 NFL Draft: Jaxon Smith-Njigba says Packers 'are definitely looking He carries acceleration through transitions with great hip sink but also presses upfield at stems and actively employs deception. Hes not the most explosive or the fastest receiver, but hes a methodical route runner who can employ his brand of athleticism extremely efficiently. Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba will do every test Rising didn't have a performance quite like Stroud's, but he's still worth talking about. - He's not going to blow by any defensive backs with his speed, and he's not going to participate in 40-yard dash drills at the combine, so he won't be able to change the narrative that he's a tad slower than some other standouts at WR in this class. 5 Ohio State over Nebraska", "Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba sets bowl record with 347 receiving yards vs. Utah in Rose Bowl win", "Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba won't play in College Playoff, intends to enter 2023 NFL Draft", "Ohio State's Impactful Nigerian Connections, Relationship with Greg Mattison and Eye-Opening June Visit Were Driving Forces in Tunmise Adeleye's Recruitment", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jaxon_Smith-Njigba&oldid=1141457926, American people of Sierra Leonean descent, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 25 February 2023, at 04:43. Graduated in 2020. Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba confident he is 'a top-five player' in 2023 NFL Draft: 'I can win you the game', Tracking the fastest 40 times from the 2023 NFL Combine, Follow live updates, highlights from NFL Combine workouts, Updated NFL Draft big board of top 125 players overall, position rankings. Hes an extremely sudden, amped-up mover who stores immense amounts of potential energy within his frame. Smith-Njigba is a favorite to not only break into Round 1 of the 2023 NFL Draft but also be one of the first wide receivers off the board. The SPORTS REFERENCE and STATHEAD trademarks are owned exclusively by Sports Reference LLC. Still, he had earned more than a few admirers, interviewer after interviewer peppering him with questions. The silver lining is that the Ohio State WR flashes great explosive capacity. The last time Ohio State took the field, Ryan Day's squad was embarrassed in a 42-27 loss to Michigan. Tracks the deep ball over either shoulder and brings in passes fluidly without breaking stride downfield. In a wide receivers room that also featured reigning 2022 Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave, Smith-Njigba led the Buckeyes with 95 receptions, 1,606 receiving yards (16.9 yards per catch) and nine touchdowns. Fellow Buckeye Jaxon Smith-Njigba most likely won't be a top five pick but he believes he's that type of talent. He has a very reasonable path to success at the next level, but his lack of elite burst and speed are notable concerns. MORE:Tracking the fastest 40 times from the 2023 NFL Combine, "My playmaking ability is second to none," Smith-Njigba said. He also sometimes lacks the strength to maintain key blocks on the outside. He wont always win on explosiveness alone, and he doesnt cover a ton of ground off initial explosions out of cuts. 3, behind Quentin Johnston (TCU) and Jordan Addison (USC). Will Ohio State football's Jaxon Smith-Njigba play against Iowa? Jaxon Smith-Njigba Breaks Rose Bowl Receiving Record as OSU Tops Utah 5-ranked player overall in the state of Texas, Played in the Army All-American game in San Antonio, Compiled 5,346 career receiving yards and 82 touchdowns in 44 career games at High School, Super productive slot receiver who Led Ohio state in receptions and yardage in 2021 despite playing officially as the third receiver behind Olave and Garret Wilson, Smooth hips with outstanding agility who is equally adept at moving laterally as vertically, Has outstanding soft hands demonstrated by his impressive 141.8 QB rating when targetted in 2021. Jaxon Smith-Njigba | 2021 Highlights - YouTube He believes that if he had, confetti could have rained down on the scarlet and gray. "The Patriots have a new offensive coordinator in Bill O'Brien and could . If the Bears have a chance to snag him, JSN feels like one of the few no-brainers of the draft. [1] Smith-Njigba led all high school football players in the DallasFort Worth metroplex with 97 receptions for 1,828 yards and 20 touchdowns in his junior season. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, CJ Stroud break Ohio State, Rose Bowl records After that performance, he was touted as one of the top prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. Three trades in a chaotic top five, NFL draft questions, predictions for combine workouts: Potential risers, top QBs and burners to watch, Played college football at Cheyney University. NFL teams had hoped to see Smith-Njigba run the 40 in Indianapolis to compare him against the rest of the top wide receivers in 2023. NFL footage NFL Productions LLC. He had six drops in his 2021 campaign. I just try to use all those qualities and get the job done. Jaxon Smith-Njigba (/ndb/ in-JIG-b; born February 14, 2002), also known by his initials JSN, is an American football wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Amateur career [ edit] Smith-Njigba attended Rockwall-Heath High School in Heath, Texas, where he played baseball. Any team investing high draft capital in him knows what they are getting: a high-volume wide receiver that can work both inside and on the perimeter. Even without elite explosiveness, hes still a very abrupt player whose natural suddenness provides ample value. [7] A 5 star prospect and the #5 ranked wide receiver in the nation, Smith-Njigba received offers from many top college football programs including Notre Dame, Nebraska and Ole Miss. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. Smith-Njigba's central role in the offense was expected to be a major part of OSU's identity as a national championship contender. 1 Quentin Johnston - TCU. Like other Ohio State WRs before him, Smith-Njigba isnt an overwhelming size threat. (19%*), 75 3/8 All Rights Reserved. But if you want a well-rounded, high-floor receiver who can churn out 1,000-yard seasons year after year, Smith-Njigba is your guy. He understands leverage and can effectively direct DBs away from runners. One wide receiver many Chicago Bears fans have on their radar heading into the 2023 draft is former Ohio State Buckeyes standout Jaxon Smith-Njigba. [1] January 21, 2023 11:30 pm ET. And when the ball comes his way, Smith-Njigba has rare instincts and excellent hands. While Smith-Njigba is an exceptional player, there are some limitations and areas for improvement to make note of. What makes Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba . We present them here for purely educational purposes. Jaxon Smith-Njigba believes Ohio State would have won the national championship had he been healthy all of last season. [5][6] Smith-Njigba finished his high school career with 5,346 career receiving yards and 82 touchdowns in 44 games played. 2023 NFL draft film room: Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba, CJ Stroud among Draft prospects who Current draft projection for Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He holds the FBS Bowl Game and Ohio State single game record for most receiving yards with 347 in the 2022 Rose Bowl.
The game's only in the third quarter pic.twitter.com/2yNyfpHVXg, It's a new Buckeye record for Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
He has 288 Rec yds (and counting), the most in a game in program history, and he's closing in on the all-time Bowl Game record (308 by Jason Rivers in 2006).
No. He also holds Ohio State records for most catches in a single game with 15 (twice) and most receiving yards in a single season with 1,606 during the 2021 season. Join our linker program. Buckeyes' Jaxon Smith-Njigba returns vs. Iowa Every dynasty GM knows there is no offseason. Resting on the podium overlooking a gaggle of reporters, Jaxon Smith-Njigba looked a composed figure. With his slightly lighter frame, hes not always going to withstand direct contact. GET BEARS NEWS DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX DAILY WITH OUR NEWSLETTER. The NFL offseason is here (silently chuckles on the inside). Over the final five games of the 2021 season, the Texas native accumulated 60 receptions for 958 yards and six touchdowns. Smith-Njigba (hamstring) said he's 100 percent healthy, according to ESPN's Turron Davenport. ESPN's Mel Kiper Jr. ranks Smith-Njigba as the No. However, he began to heat up again as the half went on. 1 Pick, The Case for Will Levis To Be the No. Rising is a big reason the Utes even reached the Rose Bowl, and he'll undoubtedly be a reason they play in another bowl game next season. You can check them all out in our 2023 dynasty draft kit. He uses violent targeted swats to combat jams and swipes down arms at the catch point. Jaxon Smith-Njigba's NFL Combine profile. Use without license or authorization is expressly prohibited. CBS Sports is a registered trademark of CBS Broadcasting Inc. (Photo: Photo by Frank Jansky/Icon Sportswire, Getty), wide receiver many Chicago Bears fans have on their radar heading into the 2023 draft is former Ohio State Buckeyes standout, -Njigba played minimally with Bears quarterback. Every Sports Reference Social Media Account, Site Last Updated: Friday, March 3, 6:39AM. Jaxon Smith-Njigba - Wikipedia I think he'll grow into a versatile all-around threat. Smith-Njigba is listed at 6-0, 200 pounds ahead of the NFL Combine. Those results won't be made public. Below Ill take a closer look at Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Some school's results have been altered by retroactive NCAA penalties. Stats at ESPN.com. Additionally, he primarily operated out of the slot in 2021 and frequently had free releases. . If anything, Saturday's game showed us the Buckeyes are in good hands moving forward. He had six drops in his 2021 campaign. Smith-Njigba struggles with injury after first catch (0:19) Jaxon Smith-Njigba takes a big hit on his first catch and doesn't come back in the game until late in the second quarter. 2023 NFL Draft Player Preview: Jaxon Smith-Njigba - WalterFootball.com As it turns out, all the Buckeyes needed was Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Jaxon Smith-njigba Stats, News, Fantasy Football Rankings Jaxon Smith-Njigba Wide Receiver Number # AGE 21 weight 198 lbs. 2023 NFL Draft: Jaxon Smith-Njigba says Packers 'are definitely looking 3 Jordan Addison - USC. Fields has also said in interviews this offseason that he'd like to see JSN come to town, which is all the more reason for him to be onChicago's radar. While Smith-Njigba entered the game leading Ohio State with 80 catches for 1,259 yards, he ranked third behind Olave and Wilson with six touchdowns. He's not going to blow by any defensive backs with his speed, and he's not going to participate in 40-yard dash drills at the combine, so he won't be able to change the narrative that he's a tad slower than some other standouts at WR in this class. See our list of forfeits and vacated games for more details. The Ohio State WR also has great stop-and-start ability and can break at impressive angles with his loose hips. That may give some teams understandable pause. If youre like me and youve had a raging fever since Februarythe only prescription is my rookie primers. In 2021, he was third among FBS wide receivers (minimum 50 targets) in receiving yards (1,595) and second in YAC (790). If the picks line up, adding Smith-Njigba would be an easy decision for Chicago. Smith-Njigba wont burn you in the open field with his raw speed, but that isnt necessary for him to succeed. His size and strong lower body make him a tricky task for corners once the ball is in his hands. Or write about sports? He averaged 8.3 yards after the catch in 2021 and will likely continue that trend in the NFL. Smith-Njigba dominated during his high school career and had over 5,300 receiving yards and 63 receiving touchdowns, with little of that production coming in his freshmen season. Smith-Njigba is undergoing medical testing at the combine, with coaches and front-office executives monitoring the results on the hamstring injury that limited him in 2022. Has good body strength to squirm out of tackles with the coordination to maneuver his frame between defenders. He was a 5-star recruit and the fifth WR in his class. Smith-Njigbas snap at the top of his stem is excellent, which allows him to create easy separation. Jaxon Smith-Njigba: College football career, stats, highlights, records UTAH HITS THE END ZONE FIRST IN THE @rosebowlgame
: ESPN pic.twitter.com/ViwcC57gPb, UTAH 97-YARD KICK RETURN TD pic.twitter.com/Vx5K537La6, CAMERON RISING WOULD NOT BE STOPPED pic.twitter.com/RCIwiwaQQ4. "Why Rockwall WR, Ohio State pledge Jaxon Smith-Njigba's impressive showing at The Opening almost didn't", "Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Riley Dodge win 2019 Tom Landry Awards", "Rockwall wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba named Gatorade Texas football player of the year", "Jaxon Smith-Njigba Named to SI All-American Team", "Ohio State commit Jaxon Smith-Njigba honored as a 2020 All-American", "Jaxon Smith-Njigba poised to become Ohio State's next star at receiver", "Jaxon Smith-Njigba, Ohio State Buckeyes, Wide Receiver", "Four-Star Wide Receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba Commits To Ohio State", "Former Rockwall star Jaxon Smith-Njigba ready to take on larger role in Ohio State's offense", "Is Jaxon Smith-Njigba headed for breakout game in Ohio State football's season opener against Minnesota? historically in the player's position group (Higher value represents better perfomance). Also, in saying that, it has to be mentioned that he is plenty quick to win in the NFL. A text message to Smith-Njigba has not been returned yet. On the topic of Ohio State, Smith-Njigba expressed regret that he wasn't able to play more. Top WR Prospect Praises Patriots, Mac Jones After Combine Meeting MORE:Follow live updates, highlights from NFL Combine workouts. He missed all but three games of the 2022 season because of a hamstring injury. [11] On November 6, 2021, Smith-Njigba recorded 15 receptions (single game school record) for 240 yards (the second most receiving yards in a game in school history at the time) and one touchdown in a 2617 win against Nebraska. His height, weight, and length are all likely close to the median for wide receivers. Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba to miss Peach Bowl, enter 2023 NFL Draft Smith-Njigba had five receptions for 43 yards this season. Resting on the podium overlooking a gaggle of reporters, Jaxon Smith-Njigba looked a composed figure. ", Smith-Njigba feels 100% after injury-marred '22, Jones: Not fixated on Cowboys' drought, just '23, Sources: Raiders plan franchise tag for Jacobs, WR Addison to Steelers' Pickett: 'Come get me', Wolverines' Turner wows with 4.26 40 at combine, Top QB prospect Levis eager to unleash 'cannon', QB Bennett addresses off-field issues at combine, Campbell: Lamar wants deal done with Ravens, Alabama QB Young undeterred by size questions, The most memorable pre-NFL draft workouts ever: Coaches, scouts, execs make their picks, 2023 NFL franchise tag tracker: Raiders tag Josh Jacobs, the NFL's rushing leader, Browns' offense: Grading positions ahead of free agency, 2023 draft, Jaguars won't spend big, but here are five players they could target in free agency. Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba turns in historic performance vs. Utah The Buckeyes are winning 45-38 thanks to the 85-yard drive capped by Smith-Njigba. 11 Utah and No. 2 wideout in the class, behind Zay Flowers (Boston College), while Todd McShay has him at No. Copyright 2000-2023 Sports Reference LLC. Career; Var 19-20; Var 18-19; Var 17-18; Var 16-17; Career Stats. Stacked formations. Are you looking to contact Customer Support about a subscription or account related question? apped his 2021 campaign with a ridiculous performance in the Rose Bowl against Utah, catching 15 passes for 347 yards and three touchdowns through the air, setting a new record for receiving yards in the legendary bowl game. Stroud To Be the No. Smith-Njigba caught 95 passes for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns in 2021. Devy Spotlight: Jaxon Smith-Njigba - Dynasty Nerds STATISTICS. Rob Oller: OSU receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba lights up Utes and - Yahoo! Pro Football Network, LLC. Is Ohio State WR and 2023 NFL Draft prospect Jaxon Smith-Njigba the best of the bunch from the historic 2021 OSU trio? Jaxon Smith-Njigba: Declares himself 100 percent 6 Ohio State Buckeyes defeated the No. The Ohio State WR is a natural hands catcher, with incredibly smooth body control in the open field when adjusting for throws. With lacking elite explosiveness and burst, Smith-Njigba isnt going to offer a consistent dynamic element downfield. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, CJ Stroud shine, Ohio State tops Utah in Rose Bowl He has very fluid hips. Do you have a sports website? Among other things, Smith-Njigba has shown that while he doesnt have great long speed, he can at least stack defenders in the slot on intermediate routes. The duo didnt work together beyond one season, but it still matters. As a senior, he caught 104 passes for 2,094 yards and 35 scores. Smith-Njigbas very consistent catching the ball in stride to supplement run-after-catch opportunities, and he converts over the middle of the field, even with impending contact. There's no other way to put it. The No. As a matter of policy, Sports Reference only reports the results of games as played on the field. [16] Smith-Njigba's older brother, Canaan Smith-Njigba, plays for the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball (MLB).[17]. Despite having most of his 2022 season wiped out by the injury, the six-foot, 197-pound Smith-Njigba is still a good bet to hear his name called in the first round of the draft, given his past production and the outstanding hands and agility he's displayed when healthy. Latest on Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba including news, stats, videos, highlights and more on ESPN "I just think my playmaking ability is second to none in this draft," he said. They won that game 64-6. WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba Makes Captivating Statement Regarding The Green 2023 NFL Draft Highlights: Jaxon. He was replaced by freshman quarterback Bryson Barnes. Vikings Draft Thermometer: WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba When Ohio State wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, a likely first round selection in the 2023 NFL Draft, was asked what stood out about his formal interview with the Green and Gold, he said the . Can he make the most of it and command first-round capital like they did? Thoughts from Day 1 of the NFL Combine - Buffalo Rumblings A new home for Michael Thomas? Jaxon Smith-Njigba Height, Weight and Hand Size I don't think he'll be limited to just a slot receiver in the NFL. Has dominated at the college level but doesn't have any elite traits that translate to the pro game - athletically he's good not great, Doesn't have any serious explosion to his game and may find it difficult to separate at the NFL level, Has good but not great speed and doesn't possess elite athletic skills, Has missed a major chunk of his junior year with a hamstring injury - will have to demonstrate this is the exception rather than the rule for him, Has had a few more drops than you would hope for in a top wideout - mostly due to occasional lapses of concentration rather than anything more intrinsic, Spent most of his college career playing in the slot - so it remains to be seen how he will stand up as an outside threat. Smith-Njigba will need to fine-tune his route running to give himself his best chance to succeed at the next level. [12] Later that season, he set both an Ohio State single game and FBS Bowl record for receiving yards with 347 in Ohio State's win in the 2022 Rose Bowl. He also has the most receiving yards in Rose Bowl game history. Here's what NFL.coms draft expert Lance Zierlein had to say about Smith-Njigba's game: "Smith-Njigba is a possession slot receiver who lacks the shake to separate underneath and the speed to run past defenses. 2023 NFL Draft: Jaxon Smith-Njigba says Packers 'are definitely looking He carries acceleration through transitions with great hip sink but also presses upfield at stems and actively employs deception. Hes not the most explosive or the fastest receiver, but hes a methodical route runner who can employ his brand of athleticism extremely efficiently. Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba will do every test Rising didn't have a performance quite like Stroud's, but he's still worth talking about. - He's not going to blow by any defensive backs with his speed, and he's not going to participate in 40-yard dash drills at the combine, so he won't be able to change the narrative that he's a tad slower than some other standouts at WR in this class. 5 Ohio State over Nebraska", "Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba sets bowl record with 347 receiving yards vs. Utah in Rose Bowl win", "Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba won't play in College Playoff, intends to enter 2023 NFL Draft", "Ohio State's Impactful Nigerian Connections, Relationship with Greg Mattison and Eye-Opening June Visit Were Driving Forces in Tunmise Adeleye's Recruitment", https://en.wikipedia.org/w/index.php?title=Jaxon_Smith-Njigba&oldid=1141457926, American people of Sierra Leonean descent, Creative Commons Attribution-ShareAlike License 3.0, This page was last edited on 25 February 2023, at 04:43. Graduated in 2020. Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba confident he is 'a top-five player' in 2023 NFL Draft: 'I can win you the game', Tracking the fastest 40 times from the 2023 NFL Combine, Follow live updates, highlights from NFL Combine workouts, Updated NFL Draft big board of top 125 players overall, position rankings. Hes an extremely sudden, amped-up mover who stores immense amounts of potential energy within his frame. Smith-Njigba is a favorite to not only break into Round 1 of the 2023 NFL Draft but also be one of the first wide receivers off the board. The SPORTS REFERENCE and STATHEAD trademarks are owned exclusively by Sports Reference LLC. Still, he had earned more than a few admirers, interviewer after interviewer peppering him with questions. The silver lining is that the Ohio State WR flashes great explosive capacity. The last time Ohio State took the field, Ryan Day's squad was embarrassed in a 42-27 loss to Michigan. Tracks the deep ball over either shoulder and brings in passes fluidly without breaking stride downfield. In a wide receivers room that also featured reigning 2022 Offensive Rookie of the Year Garrett Wilson and Chris Olave, Smith-Njigba led the Buckeyes with 95 receptions, 1,606 receiving yards (16.9 yards per catch) and nine touchdowns. Fellow Buckeye Jaxon Smith-Njigba most likely won't be a top five pick but he believes he's that type of talent. He has a very reasonable path to success at the next level, but his lack of elite burst and speed are notable concerns. MORE:Tracking the fastest 40 times from the 2023 NFL Combine, "My playmaking ability is second to none," Smith-Njigba said. He also sometimes lacks the strength to maintain key blocks on the outside. He wont always win on explosiveness alone, and he doesnt cover a ton of ground off initial explosions out of cuts. 3, behind Quentin Johnston (TCU) and Jordan Addison (USC). Will Ohio State football's Jaxon Smith-Njigba play against Iowa? Jaxon Smith-Njigba Breaks Rose Bowl Receiving Record as OSU Tops Utah 5-ranked player overall in the state of Texas, Played in the Army All-American game in San Antonio, Compiled 5,346 career receiving yards and 82 touchdowns in 44 career games at High School, Super productive slot receiver who Led Ohio state in receptions and yardage in 2021 despite playing officially as the third receiver behind Olave and Garret Wilson, Smooth hips with outstanding agility who is equally adept at moving laterally as vertically, Has outstanding soft hands demonstrated by his impressive 141.8 QB rating when targetted in 2021. Jaxon Smith-Njigba | 2021 Highlights - YouTube He believes that if he had, confetti could have rained down on the scarlet and gray. "The Patriots have a new offensive coordinator in Bill O'Brien and could . If the Bears have a chance to snag him, JSN feels like one of the few no-brainers of the draft. [1] Smith-Njigba led all high school football players in the DallasFort Worth metroplex with 97 receptions for 1,828 yards and 20 touchdowns in his junior season. Jaxon Smith-Njigba, CJ Stroud break Ohio State, Rose Bowl records After that performance, he was touted as one of the top prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. Three trades in a chaotic top five, NFL draft questions, predictions for combine workouts: Potential risers, top QBs and burners to watch, Played college football at Cheyney University. NFL teams had hoped to see Smith-Njigba run the 40 in Indianapolis to compare him against the rest of the top wide receivers in 2023. NFL footage NFL Productions LLC. He had six drops in his 2021 campaign. I just try to use all those qualities and get the job done. Jaxon Smith-Njigba (/ndb/ in-JIG-b; born February 14, 2002), also known by his initials JSN, is an American football wide receiver for the Ohio State Buckeyes. Amateur career [ edit] Smith-Njigba attended Rockwall-Heath High School in Heath, Texas, where he played baseball. Any team investing high draft capital in him knows what they are getting: a high-volume wide receiver that can work both inside and on the perimeter. Even without elite explosiveness, hes still a very abrupt player whose natural suddenness provides ample value. [7] A 5 star prospect and the #5 ranked wide receiver in the nation, Smith-Njigba received offers from many top college football programs including Notre Dame, Nebraska and Ole Miss. All other NFL-related trademarks are trademarks of the National Football League. Smith-Njigba's central role in the offense was expected to be a major part of OSU's identity as a national championship contender. 1 Quentin Johnston - TCU. Like other Ohio State WRs before him, Smith-Njigba isnt an overwhelming size threat. (19%*), 75 3/8 All Rights Reserved. But if you want a well-rounded, high-floor receiver who can churn out 1,000-yard seasons year after year, Smith-Njigba is your guy. He understands leverage and can effectively direct DBs away from runners. One wide receiver many Chicago Bears fans have on their radar heading into the 2023 draft is former Ohio State Buckeyes standout Jaxon Smith-Njigba. [1] January 21, 2023 11:30 pm ET. And when the ball comes his way, Smith-Njigba has rare instincts and excellent hands. While Smith-Njigba is an exceptional player, there are some limitations and areas for improvement to make note of. What makes Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba . We present them here for purely educational purposes. Jaxon Smith-Njigba believes Ohio State would have won the national championship had he been healthy all of last season. [5][6] Smith-Njigba finished his high school career with 5,346 career receiving yards and 82 touchdowns in 44 games played. 2023 NFL draft film room: Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba Ohio State's Jaxon Smith-Njigba, CJ Stroud among Draft prospects who Current draft projection for Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He holds the FBS Bowl Game and Ohio State single game record for most receiving yards with 347 in the 2022 Rose Bowl.