Jaxon Smith-Njigba 45-yard TD ties Seahawks-Patriots at 10-10 in fourth quarter

The reigning AP offensive player of the year just showed why he earned the honor.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba scored a 45-yard touchdown early in the fourth quarter to tie the 2026 season opener at 10-10.

After Drake Maye tossed his first interception of the year on a jump ball to Romeo Doubs, the Seahawks didn't take long to get in the end zone for the first time this season. Facing fourth-and-1 in New England territory, quarterback Drew Lock - playing for the injured Sam Darnold - made a quick fake on a handoff and sent a short pass on the left side to a wide-open Smith-Njigba.

But from there, the receiver did the rest, turning on the burners to evade defenders for a 45-yard score.

Smith-Njigba gained 41 yards after the catch.

The fourth-year receiver now has seven catches for 111 yards with a TD