Jaxon Smith-Njigba won't play in College Football Playoffs, will prepare for 2023 NFL Draft

No. 4 Ohio State will be without one of last season’s top weapons in its semifinal matchup in the Peach Bowl against No. 1 Georgia. Sidelined by injury for most of the 2022 campaign, Jaxon Smith-Njigba will not play in the semifinal and will begin preparing for the 2023 NFL Draft, ESPN’s Adam Rittenberg reported Monday.

His college career is over, coach Ryan Day revealed.

“He has had such a major impact here in Columbus, on and off the field, in a relatively short period of time,” Day said, according to Rittenberg.

The star wideout played in only three games for Ohio State in 2022 after suffering a hamstring injury in the season opener against Notre Dame. He had not seen action since Oct. 22, finishing his junior season with five catches for 43 yards.

The receiver himself confirmed his departure on Twitter on Monday afternoon shortly after Rittenberg’s report dropped.

“I did everything possible to put myself in a position to get back on the field multiple times this year, I wanted it as much, if not more than anyone else,” Smith-Njigba wrote in a graphic announcing his departure.

“After consulting with my doctors, it has been determined that I will not be able to participate in the playoffs. Having prayed on it with my family, I have decided to focus on getting 100% healthy and commit to my training for the next chapter in my football journey. I am officially declaring for the 2023 NFL Draft.”

Jaxon Smith-Njigba injury slowed sensational rise

Now headed to the 2023 NFL Draft, Jaxon Smith-Njigba will still leave a lasting legacy at Ohio State.

Smith-Njigba was a breakout star for the Buckeyes at receiver in 2021, recording 95 catches for 1,606 yards and nine touchdowns. He had a monster showing in a thrilling 48-45 Rose Bowl win over Utah, catching 11 passes for 347 yards and three touchdowns.

He was effusive in his praise of Buckeye Nation in his departure note.

“As a young kid from Texas, I’ve always dreamed of playing football on the biggest stage. It’s humbling to think that I eventually did play not only on the biggest stage in college football, but also surrounded by the best group of people,” Smith-Njigba wrote. “My teammates, coaches, training staff, Coach (Mickey Marotti‘s) whole team, students, professors, tutors, chefs, Buckeye Nation, of course, the best damn band in the land, everyone in the Woody along with those that always pushed me to be great. Thank you for being part of my life and turning into people I’ll call family forever.

“Most of all I want to thank God for giving me strength. Leaning on him has always been my answer, and he has not failed me yet because I know I’ll come out stronger than ever.

“I’ve always appreciated the challenge of growing mentally and physically to be the best player and teammate possible on and off the field. Being there for my brothers means everything to me. Having the opportunity to do that these past three years has been an honor and life changing. It’s something I will hold deeply in my heart forever. …

“My love for Columbus, Ohio and the Buckeyes is everlasting, and I’m excited to cheer them on as we make our run this year and in the years to come.

“Love y’all Buckeye Nation.”