Jaxon Smith-Njigba just named the three wide receivers who shaped his game. And one of them heard it and fired back a message that felt like a passing of the torch.
The Seattle Seahawks star, fresh off a Super Bowl win and an Offensive Player of the Year campaign, told reporters Sunday that he studied Antonio Brown, Larry Fitzgerald and Dez Bryant to build his own versatile style.
“I always watched the ABs, the Dez Bryant’s and the Larry Fitzgerald’s, and those guys really line up everywhere,” Smith-Njigba said. “So, I just wanted to be versatile to where I can line up literally anywhere, whatever the coach needs.”
That kind of respect doesn’t go unnoticed. Bryant responded quickly on social media: “Love and respect always for JSN!” The former Cowboys All-Pro has never been shy about backing the next wave of talent, and this was no exception.
How JSN Turned Film Study Into a Historic Season
Smith-Njigba’s 2025 season was absurd. He caught 119 passes for 1,793 yards and cleared 100 yards in nine different games. At 24 years old, he became the NFL’s top offensive weapon while helping Seattle win its first Super Bowl title in franchise history.
His ability to line up everywhere — slot, outside, even in the backfield — is a direct product of watching those three legends. Bryant in particular built a reputation on physical catches and relentless energy. JSN took that template and added his own speed and route precision.
Now the Seahawks think he can get even better. Seattle is bringing back Sam Darnold at quarterback after he won that ring, with a healthier Zach Charbonnet in the backfield and receiver Tory Horton also returning. The offense is loaded.
Bryant Still Speaks His Mind
Bryant has kept a visible presence in football conversations since retiring. He recently criticized the idea of Travis Hunter being forced into a full-time cornerback role, calling the move a waste of Hunter’s two-way ability. Bryant also defended Brandon Aiyuk during the receiver’s rocky stretch with the 49ers, arguing that players with talent deserve patience.
So when a Super Bowl champion name-drops you as an influence, it lands different. Bryant made sure JSN knew that respect runs both ways.
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