Seahawks Secure Fifth-Year Options for Smith-Njigba and Witherspoon
The NFL’s fifth-year option season has commenced, with the Seattle Seahawks making significant decisions regarding their 2023 first-round draft picks. The team has officially exercised the fifth-year options for wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba and cornerback Devon Witherspoon, securing their contracts through the 2027 season.
Seahawks Exercise Fifth-Year Options
The Seahawks selected Smith-Njigba with the 20th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft. He is set to receive a guaranteed salary of $23.852 million for the 2027 season. Witherspoon, the fifth overall pick, will earn $21.161 million in 2027.
Contract Details and Future Outlook
The exercise of the fifth-year option provides both players with financial security. This is particularly important if they incur any injuries during the early stages of the 2026 offseason program. The deadline for activating these options is set for May 1.
- Jaxon Smith-Njigba: 20th overall pick, 2023
- Guaranteed salary: $23.852 million for 2027
- Devon Witherspoon: 5th overall pick, 2023
- Guaranteed salary: $21.161 million for 2027
Smith-Njigba has expressed aspirations to become the highest-paid receiver in the NFL, a status that would necessitate a contract averaging over $40 million annually. To reach this goal, a five-year contract worth $148.4 million would be required, leading to an average annual value of $41 million combined with his existing contract terms.
Seahawks’ Long-Term Strategy
The Seahawks’ decision to retain both Smith-Njigba and Witherspoon highlights their commitment to building a competitive team. Their contracts reflect the team’s investment in young talent. Similar moves are expected as other franchises will also evaluate their 2023 first-round selections.
It is worth noting that only 31 players were selected in the 2023 first round. The Miami Dolphins forfeited their pick due to sanctions related to tampering with Tom Brady and Sean Payton. As the offseason progresses, more teams will exercise their options, focusing on players who have demonstrated their value.
