Ryan Day adds cryptic comment on possibility of Jaxon Smith-Njigba playing again in 2022

Ryan Day and the Ohio State offense have been operating without star wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba for much of the season. Smith-Njigba injured his hamstring in the season opener against Notre Dame and played sparingly in 2 other games, recording 5 catches for 43 yards in the process.

The status of the star wide receiver has been up in the air since the Iowa game, though he has ultimately been held out of action. Whether or not he is able to go against Maryland or in The Game vs. Michigan is uncertain.

During Thursday’s media availability, Day addressed a question about the potential for Smith-Njigba to play again in 2022. This time, Day admitted he has shifted from an expectation that Smith-Njigba would be able to play and is instead hoping Smith-Njigba can play.

Is Ryan Day still expecting to get Jaxon Smith-Njigba back this season? “I wouldn’t say expecting, I’d probably say more hoping.”

— Dan Hope (@Dan_Hope) November 17, 2022

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Last season, Smith-Njigba was an electrifying and record-setting WR. Fortunately, the offense has still performed admirably with Marvin Harrison Jr. and Emeka Egbuka doing a lot of the heavy lifting in the passing game.

There’s no denying the team would love to have Smith-Njigba to add to the mix. If he is unable to return, it will put more pressure on Julian Fleming and tight end Cade Stover in the passing game.