In the win over the Los Angeles Rams, Jaxon Smith-Njigba produced 10 receptions for 153 yards and a touchdown. Cooper Kupp added four receptions for 36 yards and a TD, while Rashid Shaheed contributed a 51-yard catch and Jake Bobo caught a touchdown. Simms argued that production behind Smith-Njigba must improve, noting that defenses will not simply neutralize him and ignore the rest of Seattle’s pass game.
“There’s got to be somebody else. You’re crazy if you think [Belichick-era] adjust to shadow Jaxon Smith-Njigba and go, ‘We’ll treat him like he’s nobody,’” Simms said on the Jan. 26 edition of Up & Adams. “They have to find a way to get Rashid Shaheed the ball more.” His point: the Seahawks need additional receiving threats to keep opposing defenses honest in a potential Super Bowl showdown.
After the victory, Smith-Njigba spoke with FOX Sports, underscoring his willingness to do “whatever it takes” for the team. He credited the win to a collective effort from special teams, defense, and offense, and thanked the 12s for their support as Seattle advanced toward San Francisco. His mindset, he said, reflected the team’s grit and determination.
Quarterback Sam Darnold was equally pivotal, going 25-for-36 for 346 yards with three touchdowns. Darnold said the win was a testament to the locker room and coaching staff, emphasizing a one-day-at-a-time approach to the journey toward the Super Bowl.
As Seattle prepares for the championship matchup with the Patriots, Simms’ warning remains a focal point: the Seahawks may need more receivers stepping up behind Smith-Njigba to counter elite defenses and secure the Lombardi Trophy. The next two weeks will be crucial in addressing that depth and refining game plans for the biggest game of the season.
