Jaxon Smith‑Njigba named AP’s top wide receiver for 2026 season

Jaxon Smith‑Njigba was selected by an Associated Press panel of eight pro‑football writers as the NFL’s top wide receiver entering the 2026 season. He earned four first‑place votes and accumulated the highest point total in the preseason survey.

Smith‑Njigba, who won the AP Offensive Player of the Year award and helped Seattle win its second Super Bowl, recently signed a four‑year, $168.6 million extension – the largest contract ever for an NFL wideout – averaging $42.15 million per year with more than $120 million guaranteed. The ranking also listed Ja’Marr Chase, Justin Jefferson, Puka Nacua and Amon‑Ra St. Brown among the top five receivers.