The Seattle Seahawks are expected to allow Kenneth Walker III to test the open market. Reports indicate that the organization does not plan to place the franchise tag on the star running back before the Tuesday afternoon deadline. This move sets the stage for one of the league’s most productive backs to enter free agency at the peak of his value.
Kenneth Walker III Joins Exclusive List of Free Agent Super Bowl MVPs
At just 25 years old, Walker is entering free agency following a historic postseason run. He becomes only the fourth player in NFL history to hit the open market while serving as the reigning Super Bowl MVP. He follows in the footsteps of defensive backs Larry Brown and Dexter Jackson, as well as return specialist Desmond Howard. Interestingly, all three of those previous MVPs chose to sign with new franchises after exploring their options in free agency, suggesting a high probability that Walker may have played his final snap in Seattle.
A Historic Super Bowl Performance Boosts Walker’s Value
Walker’s stock has never been higher following his dominant display in Super Bowl LX. In a tightly contested, defensive battle against the New England Patriots, Walker served as the engine of the Seahawks’ offense. He accounted for 161 total yards, highlighted by 135 rushing yards on 26 carries. This performance made him the first running back to earn Super Bowl MVP honors in nearly three decades, solidifying his status as a premier offensive weapon just as his rookie contract expires.
Timeline for Negotiations and Potential Landing Spots
While the Seahawks and Walker can negotiate a contract extension until the official start of the new league year on March 11 at 4 p.m. ET, the clock is ticking. If no agreement is reached, the legal tampering period opens on March 9 at noon. At that point, rival teams can begin direct communication with Walker’s representatives.
Due to his age and recent accolades, Walker is expected to sit at the top of many teams’ wish lists. Potential suitors could include the Kansas City Chiefs, who face the possibility of losing both Isiah Pacheco and Kareem Hunt to free agency. Another logical destination is the Jacksonville Jaguars, where Travis Etienne is also nearing the end of his rookie deal, leaving a potential void in their backfield.
Seattle’s Plan for the Backfield Post-Walker
If the Seahawks are unable to retain their star, the front office will likely turn to the draft or external free agents to bolster the roster. The team does have Zach Charbonnet under contract; the former 2023 second-round pick proved his worth last season by leading the team with 12 rushing touchdowns. However, Charbonnet’s availability is a concern, as he was sidelined for the final two games of Seattle’s championship run due to injury. This health uncertainty may force the Seahawks to be aggressive in finding a high-quality partner or replacement for the upcoming season.
Final Thoughts on Kenneth Walker III’s Free Agency
Kenneth Walker III enters the 2026 offseason as a rare commodity: a young, durable, and championship-proven running back with MVP credentials. While Seattle has a capable successor in Zach Charbonnet, losing a player of Walker’s caliber would leave a significant gap in their offensive identity. As the legal tampering period approaches, Walker holds significant leverage to secure a top-tier contract that reflects his status as one of the most impactful playmakers in the NFL today.
