Seahawks Star Honors 13-Year-Old Organ Donor Who Saved His Father’s Life
Seattle, WA – October 2, 2025
The NFL often measures greatness in catches, touchdowns, and highlight reels. But for Jaxon Smith-Njigba, the most meaningful story of his career has nothing to do with football — it’s about family, love, and an extraordinary gift.
This week, the Seahawks wide receiver shared an emotional revelation: his father was one of the five people whose lives were saved by the organ donation of Sanjay Samuel, a 13-year-old boy tragically killed in Queens.
Samuel’s donation included his heart, lungs, liver, pancreas, and kidneys. For Smith-Njigba’s family, that gift was personal beyond words — his father received a kidney, ending years of struggle and uncertainty with failing health.
“I’ll never stop being thankful to Sanjay’s family,” Smith-Njigba said with emotion. “They turned tragedy into life. My dad is still here because of their courage, and I’ll carry that gratitude forever.”
The young wideout, already praised for his maturity and leadership, said the experience has changed his perspective. He vowed to use his NFL platform to honor Sanjay’s memory and raise awareness for organ donation.
The Seahawks organization has rallied behind him, with teammates and coaches praising his strength. Lumen Field is expected to honor Sanjay’s legacy with a tribute before Seattle’s next home game.
In Queens, Sanjay’s family expressed gratitude that his spirit lives on through others. “He had a heart full of kindness,” his father said. “Now, that kindness continues in the lives he saved.”
For Jaxon Smith-Njigba, touchdowns will always thrill Seattle fans. But the true victory is far greater: knowing his father lives on because of a boy’s final act of love and generosity.
Steelers Rookie Responds to Depth Chart Question After Strong Game vs Jaguars
.png)
Pittsburgh, PA – August 10, 2025 — After a breakout preseason performance against the Jacksonville Jaguars, a young Steelers wide receiver is keeping his focus simple, refusing to get caught up in the depth chart conversation.
Undrafted out of Indiana this spring, the rookie seized his moment late in the game, hauling in two catches for 55 yards — including a spectacular 26-yard touchdown in the fourth quarter from quarterback Skylar Thompson. The score came on a contested “jump ball” down the right sideline, with the receiver elevating over a Jaguars defensive back to snatch it away.
“I don’t know and I’m not focused on that. When my number’s called, I just go out there and make the most of it,” he said postgame when asked if his showing could move him up the rotation.
Ke'Shawn Williams turned a 50-50 ball into a TD ‼️
— NFL (@NFL) August 10, 2025
Stream on @NFLPlus pic.twitter.com/P31GlibXzr
The rookie also flashed in the return game, breaking a 27-yard punt return that was ultimately erased by a holding penalty. Still, his burst and field vision caught the attention of both coaches and fans in attendance.
Social media lit up after the highlight touchdown, with the NFL’s official account posting that he “turned a 50-50 ball into a TD” — a clip that quickly gained traction among Steelers Nation.
Signed as a UDFA in May, he entered camp viewed as a long shot for the 53-man roster, competing behind an established top group. But Saturday night’s performance showcased his ability to make tough catches in traffic and create after the catch.
Steelers Depot labeled him one of the team’s “winners” of the game, noting that his blend of speed and physicality could make him an intriguing developmental piece.
With two preseason games left, the rookie’s battle for a roster spot — or a place on the practice squad — will be one of Pittsburgh’s most closely watched storylines heading into final cuts. Stay tuned to ESPN!
