July 27, 2026, 9:47 p.m. ET
What was a bit of a frustrating NFL rookie season for former Ohio State receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba seems so long ago. Smith-Njigba had a breakout season with the Seahawks, racking up over 1,000 yards receiving during his sophomore campaign, then followed that up by winning the NFL’s Offensive Player of the Year last season by catching 199 passes for 1,793 yards (15.1 avg.) and ten touchdowns.
And now, to the victors go the spoils because Smith-Ngiba has officially received a 99 rating in Madden NFL 27. He joins five other NFL players in receiving the rating. Reigning NFL MVP Matthew Stafford (Los Angeles Rams), reigning Defensive Player of the Year Myles Garrett (Los Angeles Rams), quarterback Josh Allen (Buffalo Bills), receiver Ja’Marr Chase (Cincinnati Bengals) and tight end Trey McBride (Arizona Cardinals) are also among the game’s highest-rated players.
Smith-Njigba’s exploits last season led to a record-setting four-year, $168.6 million contract extension that made him the NFL’s highest-paid wide receiver. The contract terms carry an average annual value of $42.15 million and include $120 million in guaranteed money. Both are records for a wide receiver.
Smith-Njigba is the second Buckeye to garner a 99 rating for an EA Sports game. Earlier this month, it was announced that Jeremiah Smith would be the only player in College Football 27 with a 99 rating.
Contact/Follow us @BuckeyesWire on X (formerly Twitter) and like our page on Facebook to follow ongoing coverage of Ohio State news, notes and opinion. Follow Phil Harrison on X.
Need a news break? Check out the all new PLAY hub with puzzles, games and more!