What happened: Per a breakdown shared by ESPN's Adam Schefter, Jaxon Smith-Njigba leads all NFL wide receivers in average annual value at $42.15 million per year. Ja'Marr Chase ranks second at $40.25 million, followed by Drake London at $35.25 million, Justin Jefferson at $35 million and CeeDee Lamb at $34 million.
Why it matters: The ranking underscores how quickly the receiver market has reset this offseason, with the top of the position now clearing $40 million per year. Smith-Njigba's placement reflects the four-year, $168.6M extension he signed in March, vaulting him past more established names at the top of the pay scale.
By the numbers: Highest-paid NFL receivers by average annual value: Jaxon Smith-Njigba $42.15M; Ja'Marr Chase $40.25M; Drake London $35.25M; Justin Jefferson $35M; CeeDee Lamb $34M.
What to watch: Watch whether the next wave of extension-eligible receivers pushes the ceiling even higher as the 2026 season approaches.