Record Contracts and Draft Buzz: Jaxon Smith-Njigba Shines Ahead of NFL Draft

Record Contracts and Draft Buzz: Jaxon Smith-Njigba Shines Ahead of NFL Draft

Welcome to the latest edition of the Pick Six newsletter! With just one month until the 2026 NFL Draft, excitement is building, especially with Pete Prisco's first mock draft of the year making waves. Jaxon Smith-Njigba's Record-Setting Contract Jaxon Smith-Njigba continues to make headlines, recently signing a four-year, $168.6 million extension with the Seattle Seahawks. This deal, which averages $42.15 million per year, makes him the highest-paid receiver in NFL history, surpassing Ja'Marr Chase. Key Highlights: - JSN led the NFL in receiving yards with 1,793 in the previous season. - His contract includes $120 million in guaranteed money. - Smith-Njigba expressed confidence about deserving this contract during a post-Super Bowl interview. The Seahawks also picked up Devon Witherspoon's fifth-year option, leaving fans eager for a potential record-setting extension for him too. Mock Draft Monday: Pete Prisco's Top Picks In this week's mock draft, Pete Prisco highlights intriguing selections, including: Raiders: QB Fernando Mendoza (Indiana) Jets: LB Arvell Reese (Ohio State) Cardinals: EDGE David Bailey (Texas Tech) Titans: EDGE Rueben Bain Jr. (Miami) Giants: LB Sonny Styles (Ohio State) Browns: WR Carnell Tate (Ohio State) Commanders: RB Jeremiyah Love (Notre Dame) Saints: S Caleb Downs (Ohio State) Chiefs: OT Francis Mauigoa (Miami) Bengals: CB Jermod McCoy (Tennessee) NFL Offseason Needs and Intriguing Signings Teams are still addressing roster gaps. Notable free agent fits include: Patriots: EDGE Jadeveon Clowney Broncos: TE David Njoku Cowboys: LB Bobby Okereke Kyler Murray joins the Vikings, and DJ Moore signs with the Bills, both adding excitement to their respective offenses. Fanatics Flag Football Classic The Fanatics Flag Football Classic showcased Team USA dominating NFL players, hinting at the challenges NFL stars may face in adapting to flag football rules. Tom Brady and Joe Burrow stood out, with Burrow expressing interest in the 2028 Olympics. Extra Points Cam Skattebo stirred controversy with comments on CTE but has since apologized. The Patriots released QB Joshua Dobbs, narrowing their roster. DeAndre Hopkins expressed interest in reuniting with Kyler Murray in Minnesota. The Falcons traded for safety Sydney Brown from the Eagles. Stay tuned for more updates as the offseason progresses!

Source: CBS Sports - 2026-03-23