Buckeyes Ex Jaxon Smith-Njigba Surgery: Out Longer Than Expected?

Former Ohio State Buckeyes star and current Seattle Seahawks rookie receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba suffered a fracture in his wrist during Saturday's preseason win over the Dallas Cowboys.

Ohio State Buckeyes fans will have to wait a bit to see Jaxon Smith-Njigba make his regular-season NFL debut after watching him flash in the preseason.

The Seattle Seahawks have been dealt an untimely blow right before the start of the regular season, as it was announced Tuesday that the first-round rookie receiver will undergo surgery after suffering a fracture in his wrist during Saturday's preseason win over the Dallas Cowboys.

Original reports from ESPN's Adam Schefter showed promise in Smith-Njigba's availability for Week 1 against the Los Angeles Rams, stating that JSN "still could have a chance to be ready for the start of the regular season."

However, Seahawks coach Pete Carroll admitted when speaking to the media Tuesday that the team is remaining optimistic despite the three- to four-week recovery timeline. This would mean Smith-Njigba could come back in Week 3 against the Carolina Panthers at the latest based on Carroll's comments.

"A slight fracture, we just want to make sure we do the right thing to ensure that he gets back as soon as possible and as safe as possible," Carroll said. "We're gonna be optimistic about it. Three to four weeks, we'll see what happens."

Smith-Njigba made his presence known in Saturday's win over Dallas. He finished with three catches for 58 yards, which was highlighted by a 48-yard catch in the second quarter

Carroll said it was on that play where JSN hurt his wrist while landing hard on the one-yard line.

The Seahawks close out the preseason on Saturday against the Green Bay Packers at Lambeau Field. 

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You can follow Zach Dimmitt on Twitter at @ZachDimmitt7

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