Two Seattle Seahawks players poised for breakout seasons are offensive tackle Charles Cross and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. Entering his third year, Cross, the ninth overall pick in the 2022 NFL Draft, has been a consistent presence on the Seahawks’ offensive line.
He started immediately as a rookie and played every offensive snap. Despite battling a toe injury that sidelined him for three games, he earned a 67.6 grade from Pro Football Focus, the highest among Seattle’s offensive linemen.
This season represents a pivotal year for Cross as the Seahawks must decide whether to exercise his fifth-year option.
Meanwhile, Smith-Njigba, the 20th overall pick in the 2023 NFL Draft, is looking to make a significant impact after a relatively quiet rookie season. Despite being the first receiver selected in his draft class, he finished with 628 receiving yards, ranking tenth among rookies.
However, it’s worth noting that Smith-Njigba played through a wrist injury and operated within a different offensive system. Now, under the guidance of new offensive coordinator Ryan Grubb and with former coordinator Shane Waldron’s departure, Smith-Njigba has the potential to climb the depth chart.
This potential ascension is further bolstered by veteran receiver Tyler Lockett’s preseason thigh injury, which limited his participation throughout training camp and preseason games. Smith-Njigba’s increased opportunities, combined with his evident growth in urgency and speed, suggest that a breakout season could be on the horizon.
