Ja’Marr Chase questions how WR rival Jaxon Smith-Njigba is being treated by NFL defenses

Cincinnati Bengals wide receiver Ja'Marr Chase questioned why Seattle Seahawks wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba is not receiving more double coverage from opposing NFL defenses. Chase discussed the topic on his podcast with former Bengals wide receiver Chad "Ochocinco" Johnson, asking why defenses appear to treat Smith-Njigba differently.

Smith-Njigba recently posted nine catches for 155 yards and three touchdowns against the Arizona Cardinals. Early in the 2026 season, Smith-Njigba recorded 0.44 targets per route run compared to Chase's 0.18, amidst Chase facing regular double teams, including during a matchup against the Houston Texans.