Seahawks Opt Against Franchise Tag for Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III
Just over a week after Kenneth Walker III was crowned Super Bowl MVP, the NFL's business realities have taken center stage. The Seattle Seahawks have reportedly decided not to apply the franchise or transition tag to their star running back. While the team has until March 3 to officially change course, sources including ESPN's Adam Schefter indicate the Seahawks are ready to allow the Super Bowl LX MVP to explore free agency.
Financial Constraints Drive Seattle's Decision
The projected franchise tag for running backs in 2026 is a fully guaranteed $14.5 million. For the Seahawks, this represents a significant burden as they manage a hefty $37.9 million salary cap hit for quarterback Sam Darnold and face demands for raises from a defense packed with star players. Under General Manager John Schneider, Seattle has a long history of avoiding the franchise tag, having used it only twice in the past 16 seasons.
Winning a championship comes with a high price tag. Schneider now confronts the enviable yet challenging task of managing a roster where player values have surged following the title run. The team is focusing on securing long-term deals for its younger core, which includes:
- Jaxon Smith-Njigba: The reigning Offensive Player of the Year is eligible for an extension and is expected to command a record-setting contract.
- Devon Witherspoon: The shutdown cornerback is also in line for a substantial new deal to keep him in Seattle for years to come.
- Impending Free Agents: Several key role players are seeking "championship raises," leaving limited room for a high-guarantee running back tag.
Risks and Market Dynamics
Despite Walker's historic Super Bowl performance—where he rushed for 135 yards, the most by an MVP running back since 1998—the NFL remains cautious about overpaying at the running back position. Seattle's decision carries extra risk because backup Zach Charbonnet is recovering from an ACL tear sustained in the Divisional Round. By skipping the tag, the Seahawks are gambling that they can either negotiate a more affordable multi-year agreement with Walker or that the open market will not meet his rumored annual asking price of over $15 million.
The Seahawks desire to retain Walker, but they aim to do so on their own terms. By forgoing the franchise tag, they are effectively challenging the rest of the league to determine the value of a Super Bowl MVP in a market that often undervalues running backs.
