ESPN says Seahawks possess second-best wide receiver core in the NFL
Jaxon Smith-Njigba raised the bar for the Seahawks following the draft.
It didn't take long for ESPN to reshape its position rankings following the 2023 NFL Draft.
With the No. 20 overall pick, the Seahawks selected Ohio State wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba to compliment DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett in the pass-catching game. And heading into offseason workouts, the Seahawks possess one of the most talented starting wide receiver groups in the NFL.
ESPN's Mike Clay has taken notice and updated his position group rankings accordingly, placing the Seahawks second to only the Cincinnati Bengals.
Heading into the draft, Clay had the Seahawks' wide receiver group ranked fairly competently. Seattle was situated as possessing the eight-best wide receiver group in his pre-draft rankings.
Alone, Smith-Njigba's presence raised the Seahawks' wide receiver room six slots in Clay's ranking. It is a bold proclamation to make for a talent that is still months away from playing a meaningful down in the NFL.
Smith-Njigba will undoubtedly play as the slot receiver in the Seahawks' lineup. He spent most of his college career playing a similar role before a hamstring injury cut his 2022 season short.
If Geno Smith is able to have a similar season to the one he had in 2022, coupled with the continuity on the offensive line and the improved offensive threats, Seattle's wide receiver room may be in for one of its most memorable seasons to date.
Well, at least ESPN thinks so.
