Seattle’s Super Bowl LX might be in the rearview, but the team’s 2026 campaign preparations are already underway. The front office faces a key decision on Kenneth Walker III, who just earned Super Bowl LX MVP honors, with franchise-tag considerations appearing unlikely.
Walker, a 2022 second-round pick, posted 1,027 rushing yards and five touchdowns in 2025, along with 282 receiving yards on 31 catches. His standout performance in the Super Bowl—135 rushing yards on 27 carries plus two receptions—highlighted his value, yet also potentially inflated his market value this offseason.
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Seattle is not expected to use the franchise tag on Walker, citing competing free-agent priorities and ongoing extensions, notably with wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba. The Seahawks must weigh Walker’s potential price tag against other roster needs as they navigate cap space.
If Walker remains available, Seattle could pursue a long-term deal, but the franchise tag appears unlikely. The team may instead prioritize retaining other free agents and extending key players, potentially prompting Walker to explore opportunities elsewhere or accept a more cap-friendly agreement to stay.
With Charbonnet already part of the backfield, Seattle could be prepared to move on from Walker to allocate cap room for improvements across the roster. As the offseason progresses, the Seahawks’ willingness to meet Walker’s market value will significantly influence their rebuilding strategy and long-term championship window.
