Seattle Seahawks head coach Pete Caroll provided more information on Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s status.
The rookie wide receiver is undergoing surgery to repair a broken bone in his wrist. Based on Carroll’s update, Smith-Njigba seems unlikely to play the Week 1 opener on Sept. 10.
According to Curtis Crabtree of FOX 13 Seattle, the first-round pick is expected to miss three-to-four weeks. Carroll said Smith-Njigba is dealing with a slight fracture, but they want to “do things right” in his treatment.
Carroll expressed optimism about Smith-Njigba’s recovery.
Pete Carroll said JSN had a slight fracture and they want to make sure to do things right. 3-4 week issue and they’re staying optimistic about his timetable.
— Curtis Crabtree (@Curtis_Crabtree) August 22, 2023
Seattle made Smith-Njigba the No. 20 pick despite missing most of his junior year at Ohio State with a nagging hamstring issue. He was limited to three receptions in five games a year after collecting 95 catches for 1,609 yards with the Buckeyes.
Smith-Njigba returned to action by tallying six catches for 83 yards in a pair of preseason games. The 6-foot newcomer joins a receiving group headlined by D.K. Metcalf and Tyler Lockett but lacking much depth.
Along with JSN’s possible absence, Dee Eskridge will start the season serving a six-game suspension for violating the league’s personal conduct policy. Dareke Young is Seattle’s only other returning wide receiver who recorded any catches (two) for the team last season.
The Seahawks begin the season by hosting an NFC West showdown against the Los Angeles Rams. While Smith-Njigba may not be ready for that game, Seattle will hope the rookie proves worth the wait.