A draft prospect for the 2023 NFL Draft in the receiver category, Jaxon Smith-Njigba is currently in his Junior year at Ohio State University. He was born in Rockwall, Texas on 14 February 2002. Jaxon attended Rockwall High School where he won the Landry award and the Texas Gatorade Football Player of the Year award. The Landry Award, named after Tom Landry, is an annual award given to the best football player in North Texas.
Smith-Njigba is not the typical explosive receiver. Therefore, he makes for a good slot receiver but is quite limited in the wide receiver role. As a slot receiver, he has the ability to quickly stop, cut a defender or change acceleration to get open. He is a clever reader of the defense and can find open spaces expertly in zone defenses.
Jaxon’s spectacular catching ability and coupled with his excellent route running make him a good enough prospect to succeed in the NFL. The doubt remains about how healthy he will be able to stay and whether or not his lack of speed would be an issue at the highest level.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s Parents
Jaxon Smith-Njigba was born on 14 February 2002 in Rockwall, Texas. His father’s name is Maada Njigba and his mother’s name is Jami Smith. Jaxon is half Sierra Leonean in descent. His grandparents are from Sierra Leone. Both of his parents are well-wishers and supporters of his NFL career.
His parents have been seen at the Rose Bowl game in 2022 when Jaxon took home the MVP game honors. With regard to Jaxon’s injury, Maada has spoken out and defended his son for not being able to play the remaining games of the season.
It is reported that both of his parents work for the state but in different fields. Maada Njigba works as a fire and rescue officer while Jami works as a social worker.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s Girlfriend
There is no news in the media regarding Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s girlfriend. Currently, he seems to be concentrating more on his professional aspirations than his private life.
Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s Brother
Jaxon has one older brother whose name is Canaan. He was born on April 30, 1999, in Dallas, Texas. Canaan is also a professional athlete. He plays outfielder for the Pittsburgh Pirates in the MLB. After getting drafted by the New York Yankees, he played for their minor leagues. In January 2021, Canaan was traded to the Pirates and he played his first game in the MLB against the St. Louis Cardinals in June 2022.
