Just like many fans around the country, Jaxon Smith-Njigba was surprised when he learned Pete Carroll wouldn’t be the head coach of the Seattle Seahawks anymore.
Smith-Njigba is at Super Bowl LVIII’s Radio Row this week to promote Bounty as part of the House of Wingman campaign.
During our conversation with Smith-Njigba, we asked about the Seahawks making a change at head coach. Although he was shocked by the move, he’s incredibly grateful for his time spent with Carroll.
“I would say it was a surprise for me too, honestly,” Smith-Njigba told The Spun. “It took me a couple of days for it to register through my mind that the great Pete Carroll won’t be my coach anymore.
“It’s definitely sad, but I’m grateful for the time I had with him and getting a chance to learn from him. It was an honor for me, especially as a rookie. I couldn’t have asked for a better setup. I’m super thankful he was my coach.”
Carroll finished his time in Seattle with 137 wins. Of course, the highlight of his tenure was winning a Super Bowl title.
Smith-Njigba, meanwhile, finished his rookie season with 63 receptions for 628 yards and four touchdowns. His shining moment was a game-winning touchdown against the Eagles.
The Seahawks have replaced Carroll with former Ravens defensive coordinator Mike Macdonald. With a completely new coaching staff in place, it’ll be interesting to see what Smith-Njigba’s role looks like in the fall.