The Sporting News' Vinnie Iyer, in his latest mock draft,has Smith-Njigba going to the Chargers with the No. Smith-Njigba played minimally with Bears quarterback Justin Fields at Ohio State in 2020, catching 10 passes for 49 yards and a touchdown that year, but it was his sophomore campaign in 2021 that put him on the map nationally. Still, he had earned more . 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. If production was the only factor, then hed have that title locked down. 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. After that performance, he was touted as one of the top prospects in the 2023 NFL Draft. 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. One of his most impressive plays of the evening was breaking a tackle and rushing for a 62-yard score. NFL Network's Tom Pelissero: Ohio State Buckeyes wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba will do every test except 40-yard dash at 2023 NFL Scouting Combine. 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. Yes, Smith-Njigba was a slot receiver in college, but that doesnt mean he doesnt have the intangibles to get loose on the boundary. I wouldn't take a big jump, but I'd move up a couple picks to nab him if he's still there late in Round 1. ANY GAME! Smith-Njigba and Addison finished third and fourth in receiving yards in 2021, respectively, first and second among Power Five players, and JSN's Rose Bowl performance put him over the top. He wont blow defenders out of their cleats, but he has the functional strength to hold running lanes or clear a path. David Suggs is a content producer at The Sporting News. Both Olave and Wilson, who declared for the NFL draft, will be gone next season, which means players like Smith-Njigba, Harrison and Egbuka will be Stroud's primary receivers in 2022. Often used on deep routes, getting separation down the sideline or over the middle on crossing routes by extending his arms rather than pure speed. And as a true sophomore in 2021, Smith-Njigba led a talented Buckeyes receiving corps in both receptions and receiving yards with 95 catches for 1,606 yards and nine scores. . He has 15 receptions for 92 receiving yards and a score. 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. On this Wikipedia the language links are at the top of the page across from the article title. Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba to miss Peach Bowl, enter 2023 NFL Draft Smith-Njigba had five receptions for 43 yards this season. Jaxon Smith-Njigba is breaking records as he scored the go-ahead touchdown on a right corner fade. The Green Bay Packers, like the rest of the NFL, are at the combine trying to figure out who they want to draft in April. Does a nice job locating and tracking deep passes and is a legitimate vertical threat. He can create in minimal space with the best of them. Do Not Sell My Personal Information. Other than his standout sophomore season, Smith-Njigba hasn't done much. And as a true sophomore in 2021, Smith-Njigba led a talented Buckeyes receiving corps in both receptions and receiving yards with 95 catches for 1,606 yards and nine scores. And when the ball comes his way, Smith-Njigba has rare instincts and excellent hands. Stroud To Be the No. On the topic of Ohio State, Smith-Njigba expressed regret that he wasn't able to play more. UTAH HITS THE END ZONE FIRST IN THE . He flashes the ability to stack corners on verticals from the slot easily. Smith-Njigba was limited to just three games in 2022 due to a hamstring injury and his decision to not participate in the College Playoff. He finished the 2021 season with 95 receptions for 1,595. It was his most productive performance since a Nov. 13 win over Arizona when he threw for 294 yards and two touchdowns and rushed for 22 yards a score. Theres the regular season, and then there is rookie fever season. Smith-Njigba wont burn you in the open field with his raw speed, but that isnt necessary for him to succeed. Copyright 2000-2023 Sports Reference LLC. Menu Shop Menu Standings Menu Stats Menu Super Bowl Menu Teams Menu Tickets Menu More . The duo didnt work together beyond one season, but it still matters. Smith-Njigba caught 15 passes for 347 yards and three touchdowns. - His recent injury history is certainly a concern. Smith-Njigba will need to fine-tune his route running to give himself his best chance to succeed at the next level. 1 Pick. Those things translate. Do you have a blog? Smith-Njigba caught 95 passes for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns in 2021. Coming to the team, it was assumed he would have to wait his time sitting behind a loaded receiving core for the Buckeyes. His receiving yard total is a new. Can he make the most of it and command first-round capital like they did? I just don't really care about his 40 time. The sophomore quarterback completed 17 of 22 passes for 214 yards and two touchdowns, in addition to rushing for 92 yards and one touchdown on 11 carries. 22 overall pick. Resting on the podium overlooking a gaggle of reporters, Jaxon Smith-Njigba looked a composed figure. Lets find out. Buckeyes' Smith-Njigba, Williams back vs. Iowa, Ohio State rules out Smith-Njigba, Williams. As a result, many are interested to see how he tests at the Scouting Combine. Stroud has a message for those who question whether Fields can excel as a passer and not just a runner. 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 silver lining is that the Ohio State WR flashes great explosive capacity. Smith-Njigba was born and raised in Rockwall, Texas, and graduated from Rockwall High School. Like other Ohio State WRs before him, Smith-Njigba isnt an overwhelming size threat. Smith-Njigba's performance helped C.J. Good effort and technique as a blocker for his size. He had six drops in his 2021 campaign. Or write about sports? If youre like me and youve had a raging fever since Februarythe only prescription is my rookie primers. January 21, 2023 11:30 pm ET. Additionally, the Ohio State WR consistently finishes forward on RAC plays and actively uses stiff arms to delay and disrupt tackle attempts. He already has a rapport with Fields. Hes more quick than fast. Jaxon Smith-Njigba Breaks Rose Bowl Receiving Record as OSU Tops Utah in Thriller Erin Walsh January 1, 2022 AP Photo/Mark J. Terrill The No. 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. That may give some teams understandable pause. Use without license or authorization is expressly prohibited. Based on Stroud's performance, in addition to the performances of his receivers, Ohio State could very well be in the College Football Playoff next season. He also has the most receiving yards in Rose Bowl game history. 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. Rising and the Utes put together five consecutive scoring drives before ending the first half with a punt. It is impossible to ignore his monster finish to the 2021 season, and he has starting slot potential, but the speed concerns coupled with an injury-plagued 2022 season threaten to negatively impact his draft stock.". As a blocker, Smith-Njigba is an energetic and high-effort player. [16] Smith-Njigba's older brother, Canaan Smith-Njigba, plays for the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball (MLB).[17]. He was a 5-star recruit and the fifth WR in his class. XFL Week 3 preview: Can AJ McCarron, Battlehawks continue their fourth-quarter heroics? The Case for Anthony Richardson To Be the No. With lacking elite explosiveness and burst, Smith-Njigba isnt going to offer a consistent dynamic element downfield. He uses violent targeted swats to combat jams and swipes down arms at the catch point. He also uses route angles and sudden movements at stems to generate displacement. Jaxon Smith-Njigba Rose Bowl stats: 15 receptions, 346 receiving yards, three touchdowns; College football world reacts to Jaxon Smith-Njigba's historic Rose Bowl game. INDIANAPOLIS -- Former Ohio State wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba says he is fully healed from the hamstring injury that kept him out for most of last season, and he intends to participate in all drills at the NFL scouting combine except for the 40-yard dash. He earned rave reviews from a number of media outlets. Smith-Njigbas snap at the top of his stem is excellent, which allows him to create easy separation. He wins with excellent, quick footwork at the line and in space. 11 Utah Utes 48-45 in Saturday's Rose Bowl in Pasadena, California, to finish the 2021 season with an 11-2 record. 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. e's a Grade A slot receiver. Do you have a sports website? Jaxon Smith-Njigba now has the most receiving yards (231) in , 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. Here's everything you need to know about Smith-Njigba's NFL combine performance, measurements and results. But after a frustrating junior year, Smith-Njigba intends to show that he is the best receiver in this year's draft. Sign up now to get access to everything publisher Zack Pearson and the entire Bear Report team have to offer on all things Chicago Bears and access to the No. Also called him, "the most natural athlete Ive ever seen. Logos were compiled by the amazing SportsLogos.net. The No. Hes a route tactician with the route-running chops of an NFL veteran. Jaxon Smith-Njigba believes Ohio State would have won the national championship had he been healthy all of last season. 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. Is Ohio State WR and 2023 NFL Draft prospect Jaxon Smith-Njigba the best of the bunch from the historic 2021 OSU trio? If the Bears have a chance to snag him, JSN feels like one of the few no-brainers of the draft. Rising didn't begin the 2021 campaign as Utah's starting quarterback but earned the position after taking over for Charlie Brewer in an overtime loss to San Diego State on Sept. 18 and led the Utes to a Pac-12 championship. As a senior, he caught 104 passes for 2,094 yards and 35 scores. 1 Quentin Johnston - TCU. He can also pinch tight angles around defensive backs while accelerating, showing off valuable ankle flexion. Canaan Elijah Smith-Njigba (born April 30, 1999) is an American professional baseball outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates of Major League Baseball (MLB). The Buckeyes star is surprisingly comfortable going low for passes, and he maintains his focus even as his balance is compromised. His size and strong lower body make him a tricky task for corners once the ball is in his hands. He holds the FBS Bowl Game and Ohio State single game record for most receiving yards with 347 in the 2022 Rose Bowl. Graduated in 2020. - Hes difficult to bring down. 2 wideout in the class, behind Zay Flowers (Boston College), while Todd McShay has him at No. 1 site covering the team! He caught just five passes for 43 yards in his final season with the Buckeyes, which has some wondering how teams currently view him with his best season over a year removed. 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. Stats: 2021 (251 FBS WRs, minimum 50 targets) Yards per route run: 1st; PFF receiving grade: 1st; Career Breakout age: 75th percentile (19.6) Statistics. Career Recap: Ohio State has been loaded with wide receiver talent year after year now, and Smith-Njigba is the program's model for the 2023 NFL Draft. / 2023 2024 BYE WEEK. 3 Jordan Addison - USC. Stroud and Smith-Njigba are cooking . The freshman quarterback was without two of his top three receivers in Chris Olave and Garrett Wilson, but that didn't matter as he had one of his most productive games of the season. Still, a first-round selection is a pretty good consolation prize. Despite the disappointing end to Rising's night, the Utes still have a bright future with him at quarterback. As a senior, he caught 104 passes for 2,094 yards and 35 scores. Draft analyst Todd McShay reported in December that Smith-Njigba was healthy enough to play in the College Football Playoffs, but chose not to. Ohio State WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba has been widely recognized as one of the top wide receiver prospects in the upcoming draft class after his breakout season in 2021 that saw him outpace two future . That's a ringing endorsement from a future contemporary. Theres the regular season, and then there is rookie fever season. 11 Utah and No. Plays Football. Amateur career [ edit] Smith-Njigba attended Rockwall-Heath High School in Heath, Texas, where he played baseball. In his final two seasons . Some of Smith-Njigbas traits suggest that he can translate well against press coverage. Jaxon Smith-Njigba WR Prospect Join Our Discord Height 6' 0" Weight 196 lbs Arm Length - Draft Pick - 2023 College Ohio State Age 21.0 High School Workouts 4.62 46th 91.1 68th 31.1 15th 4.25 58th 76.0 15th 40-Time Speed Score Vertical Jump 20 Yard Shuttle Scouting Grade College Dominator 14.2% (11th) College YPR 12.8 (25th) College Target Share Jaxon Smith-Njigba (Ohio State) . Jaxon Smith-Njigba 2022 stats* 2021 stats REC 95 YDS 1606 TDS 9 *Updated through Nov. 5, 2022 2022 season updates Nov. 2 A hamstring injury has robbed Smith-Njigba of almost his. He has very fluid hips. Watch our How-To Videos to Become a Stathead, Subscribe to Stathead and get access to more data than you can imagine. He was a five-star recruit from Rockwall (Texas) High School. Entering Saturday's game, Rising had completed 62.8 percent of his passes for 2,279 yards and 18 touchdowns against five interceptions, in addition to rushing for 407 yards and five scores. People will knock him for his long speed BUT thats not how he wins. Smith-Njigba finished the game with a mind-boggling 15 catches, 347 yards and three touchdowns as Ohio State scored a dramatic 48-45 victory over the Utes. We present them here for purely educational purposes. GET BEARS NEWS DELIVERED TO YOUR INBOX DAILY WITH OUR NEWSLETTER. Smith-Njigba was ninth in yards per route run on deep targets, tied for first in PFF deep receiving grade, and second in passer rating when targeted on routes 20-plus yards in 2021 (minimum 15 deep targets). It is highly recommended that you use the latest versions of a supported browser in order to receive an optimal viewing experience. Time will tell where he gets drafted, but he's currently one of the more intriguing prospects at wide receiver in the upcoming draft. However, theres talk that Smith-Njigba may be one of the best to come out yet. NFL footage NFL Productions LLC. A new home for Michael Thomas? It's impossible to predict where he could go in the upcoming draft, though. Jaxon Smith-njigba Stats, News, Fantasy Football Rankings Jaxon Smith-Njigba Wide Receiver Number # AGE 21 weight 198 lbs. Here's a look at Jaxon Smith-Njigba. He made his MLB debut in 2022. Let's take a closer look at JSN's draft profile, and whether the Bears should be interested in his services. While hes not an elite explosive threat, Smith-Njigbas cylindrical twitch is high-level, and he uses that trait to get DBs off-balance. Smith-Njigba has visible lateral twitch, and he brings good energy with his movement. Smith-Njigba feels 100% after injury-marred '22, Kiper's updated NFL mock draft: Who's moving up for a QB? 3, behind Quentin Johnston (TCU) and Jordan Addison (USC). Being able to create and react to the defender is the strong point in my game, and taking advantage of that. Additionally, he primarily operated out of the slot in 2021 and frequently had free releases. Hes able to secure catches with defenders in his wheelhouse, and hes comfortable with very little space. 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. Every dynasty GM knows there is no offseason. 9 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. He averaged 8.3 yards after the catch in 2021 and will likely continue that trend in the NFL. Emeka Egbuka, another freshman receiver, also had a nice outing with three catches for 46 yards. 2023 NFL Draft Highlights: Jaxon. Smith-Njigba showed some star potential in college, especially during the 2021 season in which he finished with 95 catches for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns. Ohio State star wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, who has been limited to parts of two games this season because of a hamstring injury, returned Saturday to start in the Buckeyes' 54-10 blowout of . Jaxon Smith-Njigba 2023 NFL Draft Outlook Hasn't had a chance to show what he can do this past season, but what he showed as a sophomore strongly suggests he's one of the most pro-ready. Hes not the most explosive or the fastest receiver, but hes a methodical route runner who can employ his brand of athleticism extremely efficiently. . You don't currently have any notifications. However, he needs more press experience on the boundary to prove it. Runs elite crisp routes with sharp cuts. He had six drops in his 2021 campaign. For his size, Smith-Njigba is surprisingly physical. Ohio State receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba plays against Michigan State during an NCAA college football game Saturday, Nov. 20, 2021, in Columbus, Ohio. 2005-2023 CBS INTERACTIVE ALL RIGHTS RESERVED. But at the very least, he passes the desired threshold for an NFL starter. You can check them all out in our, How to Prepare for Your Dynasty Rookie Draft, Dynasty Rookie Draft Pick Trade Strategy & Advice, Fantasy Football Draft Values to Target: Tight Ends (2023), Dynasty Trade Advice: Trade Jamaal Williams (2023 Fantasy Football), Fantasy Football Draft Sleepers: Jake Ferguson (2023), 2023 NFL Free Agent Predictions: Aaron Rodgers & Jimmy Garoppolo (Fantasy Football), 2023 NFL Free Agent Running Backs: Devin Singletary (Fantasy Football), Fantasy Football Draft Quarterback Breakouts (2023), No, I'm a California resident looking for the California Consumer Privacy Act form, Limited to three games played in 2022 due to a hamstring injury. I don't think he'll be limited to just a slot receiver in the NFL. C.J. NFL draft questions for teams in the top 10: Will the Colts trade up? He only played three games in 2022 due to a lingering. Smith-Njigba could be an immediate target hog in the NFL. Ohio State wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is one of the top prospects, regardless of position, as the college football season kicks off and we look ahead to the 2023 NFL Draft. 2022; 2021; 2020; Career; Splits. 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 can manipulate defensive backs and tempo routes to maximize space. Hes an extremely sudden, amped-up mover who stores immense amounts of potential energy within his frame.
5 Letter Words Ending In E With An R,
Maine High School Football Records,
Articles J