Jaxon Smith-Njigba goes viral for priceless moment with frustrated referee during Seahawks’ win over Arizona Cardinals

The wideout was definitely upset.

Adam Holt NFL News Writer
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Sep 25, 2025; Glendale, Arizona, USA; Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba (11) runs against the Arizona Cardinals in the third quarter at State Farm Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images

The Seattle Seahawks sure didn’t lack some flair on Thursday Night Football. They’re on the heels of a victory over the rival Arizona Cardinals, but it was a game with an abundance of ups and downs on both sides of the gridiron.

Seahawks top wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba was at the forefront of social media discussion after he got in a bit of trouble with a referee during the second half of play. Check out all of the details and the clip of the interaction below.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba goes viral for reaction to penalty

Early in the fourth quarter, the Seahawks wideout was called for a holding penalty. The bigger issue? The hold occurred on a touchdown run by running back Zach Charbonnet. He was understandably irate due to the gravity of the call.

Smith-Njigba was clearly displeased with the penalty and let everyone know his viewpoint. His anger was picked up by a hot mic. The official was less than thrilled by the WR’s actions, and his reaction was also incredibly funny.

It was probably the right call, but that didn’t stop any sort of frustration from the young receiver. He continued to show emotion throughout the sequence – knowing he just hurt his squad. A Cardinals player was shaken up on the play where the flag was thrown, only giving Smith-Njigba even more time to think about his gaff that costed his team a score on the prior play.

Seahawks kicker Jason Myers hit a game-winning field goal as time expired to lock up the win for Seattle, 23-20. Smith-Njigba was really impressive in the second half and helped Seattle get in FG range on the final drive.

A funny moment with a ref wasn’t the end of the Thursday Night Football story for the former Ohio State Buckeyes star and current Seahawks playmaker.