Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III, fresh off a Super Bowl LX MVP performance, will not receive the franchise tag, according to reports. This decision comes after a remarkable season culminating in a 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium in Santa Clara, California, on February 8, 2026. Walker’s performance – 135 rushing yards on 27 carries and 26 receiving yards on two catches – cemented his status as a key player and earned him the Pete Rozelle MVP trophy.
The decision not to franchise tag Walker, a move that would have guaranteed him a significant one-year salary, signals the Seahawks’ intent to negotiate a long-term contract with the running back. The team is likely prioritizing a multi-year deal to retain Walker beyond the 2026 season, avoiding the potentially restrictive and expensive nature of the franchise tag. This development follows a season where Walker overcame significant health challenges to become a pivotal force in the Seahawks’ championship run.
Walker’s Journey to Super Bowl Glory
Walker’s path to Super Bowl stardom was far from assured. In the summer of 2018, while a high school student at Arlington High in Tennessee, he was diagnosed with blood clots in both lungs, raising serious doubts about his ability to continue playing football. “When a doctor told me I couldn’t play no more, I just thought football was over,” Walker recounted, as reported by ESPN. His father played a crucial role in his recovery, supporting him throughout the process. This experience instilled in Walker a deep appreciation for the opportunity to play the game, a sentiment he expressed after the Super Bowl victory.
Known for his quiet demeanor and relentless work ethic, Walker earned the nickname “Thunder Shoes” in high school. He translated that power and determination to the NFL, becoming a cornerstone of the Seahawks’ offense. His Super Bowl performance was particularly notable given that the Seahawks didn’t heavily rely on NFL Offensive Player of the Year Jaxon Smith-Njigba, demonstrating Walker’s ability to carry the offensive load when needed, according to the New York Times.
Impact of the Decision and Contract Negotiations
The decision to forgo the franchise tag is a significant indicator of the Seahawks’ confidence in Walker and their willingness to invest in his future. The franchise tag for running backs in 2026 was estimated to be around $11.8 million, according to Spotrac data. Avoiding this immediate financial commitment allows Seattle more flexibility in structuring a long-term contract that aligns with the team’s overall salary cap situation. Negotiations are expected to begin shortly, with both sides expressing a desire to reach an agreement.
Walker’s agent reportedly played a key role in convincing his father, Kenneth Walker II, to attend his first NFL game – Super Bowl LX. Walker II typically avoids crowds, but made an exception for this momentous occasion, even being mic’d up for the game. “So, I didn’t think he would come. They ended up mic-ing him up and everything, so he got out of his comfort zone,” Walker said, as reported by The Athletic.
Breaking a 28-Year Drought
Walker’s Super Bowl MVP award also marked a historic moment, breaking a 28-year drought for running backs winning the prestigious honor. The last running back to claim the Super Bowl MVP title was Terrell Davis in 1998. This achievement underscores the impact of a dominant running game in a league increasingly focused on passing offenses.
The Seahawks’ victory and Walker’s individual accolades represent a high point for the franchise. The team’s success, coupled with Walker’s emergence as a superstar, positions them as strong contenders for future championships. The focus now shifts to securing Walker’s long-term future with the team and building upon the momentum of their Super Bowl triumph.
As the Seahawks begin contract negotiations with Kenneth Walker III, the NFL world will be watching closely. The outcome of these talks will not only shape Walker’s career trajectory but also provide insight into the Seahawks’ long-term plans. The team’s ability to retain its Super Bowl MVP will be crucial to maintaining its competitive edge in the years to come.
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