Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s journey to becoming a star in the NFL with the Seattle Seahawks is a testament to the strength and unity of his sports-oriented family. His rise is as much a family affair as it is a personal achievement, with roots deeply entrenched in a supportive and athletic household.

At the heart of Jaxon’s success are his parents, Maada Smith-Njigba and Jami Smith, whose dedication and guidance have been instrumental in shaping both Jaxon and his elder brother, Canaan, into professional athletes. Their story is not only about sports but also about dedication, cultural pride, and an unwavering commitment to pursuing excellence in every aspect of life.

Meet Jaxon Smith-Njigba’s Parents: Maada and Jami

Maada Smith-Njigba, Jaxon’s father, played a pivotal role in his sons’ athletic development. A former college linebacker at Stephen F. Austin University, Maada now serves as a firefighter and paramedic in Dallas. Drawing from his own experiences, he became his sons’ first coach and began training Jaxon when he was just eight years old. Meanwhile, Jami, Jaxon’s mother, has been a steadfast presence throughout his journey, from high school standout to NFL rookie. Though Maada and Jami divorced while Jaxon was still young, they have remained united in their efforts to support their children’s aspirations.

The Smith-Njigbas’ ethos of hard work was instilled early, with Maada orchestrating rigorous training sessions that included morning sprints up the challenging “Walmart Hill.” This commitment to discipline and perseverance has undoubtedly played a significant role in Jaxon’s development as an athlete.

The Smith-Njigba family’s commitment to hard work was instilled early on. Jaxon’s father, Maada, implemented rigorous training regimens for his sons, including early morning workouts sprinting up a steep incline known as “Walmart Hill”.

This foundation was built not just on physical training but also on life lessons. Maada taught his sons the importance of kindness and standing up for others, often packing extra food in Jaxon’s lunch to share with classmates who didn’t have enough. This blend of athletic discipline and strong character building within the family home shaped Jaxon into the player and person he is today.

The Smith-Njigba Sibling Bond: Jaxon and Brother Canaan

Jaxon is not the only professional athlete in the family. His older brother, Canaan Smith-Njigba, is a professional baseball outfielder. Canaan was originally drafted by the New York Yankees and has played in Major League Baseball for the Pittsburgh Pirates.

The brothers share a close bond and have often been seen supporting each other’s careers. In a fortunate turn of events, Canaan was claimed by the Seattle Mariners in 2024, uniting the siblings professionally in the same city, a development Jaxon described as a “dream come true”.

Honoring Sierra Leonean Roots and Family Heritage

Jaxon Smith-Njigba proudly honors his diverse ethnic background, which is half Sierra Leonean from his father’s side and half American from his mother’s. His connection to Sierra Leone comes from his paternal grandfather, who immigrated to the United States in the 1970s.

To celebrate this heritage, Jaxon wears the Sierra Leone flag on the back of his NFL helmet. He also chose to incorporate the family name, “Njigba,” into his jersey in high school as a way to honor his grandfather after his passing, solidifying a visible link to his cultural roots.