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As the Seattle Seahawks prepare to face off against the New England Patriots at the 2026 Super Bowl on Sunday, we’re taking a look back at the dynamic duo formed between Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba.
Throughout the 2025 NFL season, Darnold and Smith-Njigba wowed fans and commentators alike with their on-field connection and epic passes, bringing the Seahawks within reach of Super Bowl glory. The bond formed between the teammates made their wins even sweeter.
Read on for a look into what’s made the two such a power pair throughout their season.
Teamwork
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On Jan. 25, the Seahawks beat the Los Angeles Rams 31 to 27. Post game, Smith-Njigba called Darnold, who has been playing with an oblique injury since Jan. 15, “a true leader, a true competitor.”
He continued, “He led us today. Can’t say enough about Sam. For him to overcome what he had to overcome, I’m rolling with Sam all day. We believe in him. This building believes in him, this city believes in him, and it’s awesome to run out in the field with him.”
Victory
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Darnold returned the love to Smith-Njigba after the game: “The one handed catch, I mean, I’m not really surprised at this point anymore about some of the stuff that Jax does on a football field. He’s a great player.” he said.
Close Call
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The Seahawks cinched a narrow 38 to 37 victory against the Los Angeles Rams on Dec. 18. Post game, Smith-Njigba praised Darnold’s resilience through a tough game. “A lot of guys would get down on themselves and give up, lay down, but that’s not what we do, that’s not who he is,” he said.
Got Your Back
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In November, Smith-Njigba surpassed 1,000 recieving yards in the season, becoming the third player in NFL history to have at least 75 receiving yards in the first nine games of the season. “Knowing him, I know that he’s just gonna continue that work and stay hungry,” said Darnold.
Good Game
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“He’s just a pro. I love playing with him,” said Smith-Njigba after the Seahawks’ 38 to 14 win against the Washington Commanders on Nov. 2. “He’s just playing and giving his heart up, putting it all out there on the field.”
Killer Play
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At their Oct. 20 game against the Houston Texans, Darnold helped Smith-Njigba score an impressive touchdown, which he dunked through the goalpost.
Locked in
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“His consistency has been amazing, just the way he has come to work every single day, the way that he practices every single day,” said Darnold about Smith-Njigba after their Oct. 12 win against the Jacksonville Jaguars.
Putting Their Heads Together
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“He’s just continuing to grow. And I know that he’s going to continue to get better,” said Darnold of Smith-Njigba, after the Seahawks’ 44 to 13 win against the New Orleans Saints on Sep. 21.
Ahead of the Super Bowl, the teammates emphasized their respect for the other.
“I want to do it for Sam, to prove to all the doubters,” Smith-Njigba told ESPN. “My job is to make his life easier. He’s taught me how to be a professional. How to overcome. How to stay even. How to lead these guys. How not to give up. Don’t care what people say, just keep going. I know in my heart he’s a winner.”
