Jaxon Smith-Njigba

Ohio State WR

Games Watched: Penn State (2021), Michigan (2021), Utah (2021), Notre Dame

Summary: Jaxon Smith-Njigba projects to be an electric slot wide receiver at the next level. He moves smoothly and also has the ability to make sudden cuts. He can create separation and get yards after the catch. His body control and sure hands make the QBs job easier. Njigba is however, limited to the intermediate area of the field because of his lack of elite deep speed. He also struggles with physicality, particularly in press.

Pros

  • Sudden movements create separation
  • Has the ability to vary his speeds
  • Diverse release package
  • Great acceleration
  • Knows the location and pursuit angles of defenders immediately after catching the ball, allowing him to generate yards after catch
  • Good awareness of defenders, game situation
  • Finds his way to the QB in the scramble drill
  • Catches the ball outside of his frame incredibly well
  • Phenomenal ability to control his body mid route to adjust to passes

Cons

  • Lacks elite long speed
  • Struggles to separate down the field
  • Sometimes has trouble holding onto the ball going to the ground
  • Doesn’t often break arm tackles

Grade: Jaxon Smith-Njigba gets a mid first round grade. He will excel if put in the right offense where he is allowed to work the intermediate area of the field.