Jaxon Smith-Njigba & Devon Witherspoon Set Up For Success In Seattle

While hamstring issues hampered Smith-Njigba’s 2022 campaign, his 2021 season provided plenty of tape to study. On his way to 95 receptions for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns, Smith-Njigba showed the versatility to line up across the line of scrimmage and make plays. But the majority of his snaps were spent lined up inside in the slot, close to 80 percent of plays according to Pro Football Focus. Ross breaks down why Smith-Njigba comes in at No. 2 on the list and what he brings to the table for Seattle’s offense.

Smith-Njigba is a pro-ready receiver who should enjoy immediate success in the slot withDK MetcalfandTyler Lockettmanning the perimeters. This is the role in which JSN excelled at Ohio State in 2021, primarily working the middle of the field withChris OlaveandGarrett Wilsonon the outside. Seattle employs a run-first offense with a healthy amount of play-action shots downfield, so we should see a healthy dose of big plays from the rookie wideout.

Cornerback Devon Witherspoon, meanwhile, rounded out Ross’ Top 10 list.

Witherspoon was CB1 in this draft class and joins a Seattle team looking for the second coming of the Legion of Boom, with last year’s rookie sensation, Tariq Woolen, manning the other CB spot. Witherspoon has great instincts, plays the ball well and is an aggressive tackler — all traits Pete Carroll loves.

Seattle’s 10 draft selections prepare to head to rookie minicamp on May 12-14, as they get their first taste of life in the NFL.