Seattle Seahawks Face Running Back Uncertainty After Kenneth Walker III Signs With Chiefs The Seattle Seahawks are grappling with a significant void in their running back corps following the departure of star player Kenneth Walker III, who has joined the Kansas City Chiefs on a three-year contract worth $43.1 million, with potential for an additional $1.9 million. Walker, who had hoped to secure a long-term deal with Seattle during free agency, opted for the Chiefs’ offer, leaving the Seahawks without a first-string running back as they adjust their roster. The loss of Walker compounds the Seahawks’ challenges, as second-string running back Zach Charbonnet remains sidelined due to a torn ACL. Charbonnet, who has yet to return to full health, has been a key part of the team’s depth at the position. With no clear replacement secured during free agency, the Seahawks are scrambling to address their needs. Early targets such as Travis Etienne and Tyler Allgeier were not retained, forcing the team to explore other options as the free agency window closes. Reports suggest the Seahawks are considering a potential trade for Tampa Bay Buccaneers running back Rachaad White, a player who has emerged as a reliable starter in the absence of Bucky Irving. White, who has shown resilience over his four-year career, rushed for 572 yards and four touchdowns in 17 games this season. His overall production includes 2,656 rushing yards and 14 touchdowns on 677 carries, alongside 205 receptions for 1,450 yards and 11 receiving touchdowns. If acquired, White could provide immediate depth while Charbonnet recovers, though the Seahawks may pursue a short-term deal to maintain flexibility. A multi-year contract with White could also create a dynamic backfield pairing once Charbonnet returns.#kansas_city_chiefs #seattle_seahawks #zach_charbonnet #kenneth_walker_iii #rachaad_white
Seahawks not planning to tag Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III: Sources The Seattle Seahawks are not expected to use the franchise tag on running back Kenneth Walker III, meaning the reigning Super Bowl MVP will become an unrestricted free agent when the new league year begins next week, according to team sources confirmed to The Athletic on Tuesday. Walker, 25, is entering his first season as a full-time starter after playing in all 17 regular-season games for the first time. He contributed 417 scrimmage yards and four touchdowns during three playoff contests, including 27 carries for 135 yards and two receptions for 26 yards in the Seahawks’ Super Bowl 60 victory over the New England Patriots. Seattle general manager John Schneider dismissed speculation about using the franchise tag on Walker during last week’s NFL Scouting Combine. When asked if the team would consider tagging him, Schneider responded with a laugh, calling the question a “good try.” Schneider has applied the franchise tag only twice since becoming GM in 2010. Walker’s strong finish to the 2025 season followed Zach Charbonnet’s season-ending ACL injury in the divisional round, but Schneider emphasized that this context would not significantly impact negotiations for Walker’s contract. He highlighted the importance of evaluating the “whole picture” in determining the team’s approach. Schneider expressed a desire to retain Walker, stating, “We’d love to have Ken back.” He acknowledged that Walker understands the team’s priorities, which include shaping the 70-man roster and aligning with the collective needs of the squad. Using the franchise tag on Walker would have tied him to the Seahawks for $14.5 million in 2026, according to Over the Cap. Alternatively, a transition tag would have cost $11.#new_england_patriots #seattle_seahawks #kenneth_walker_iii #super_bowl_60 #john_schneider
Kenneth Walker III potential landing spots: Where will Super Bowl LX MVP play in 2026? The reigning Super Bowl MVP is entering free agency after the Seattle Seahawks declined to use the franchise tag on him ahead of Tuesday’s deadline. Unless an agreement is reached before free agency begins next week, Walker will seek a new team in the open market. With his career performance and potential impact, speculation is growing about where the running back might land in 2026. Carolina Panthers: Despite head coach Dave Canales’ emphasis on a tandem backfield with Chuba Hubbard, Rico Dowdle emerged as the team’s most productive rusher in 2025, tallying 1,076 yards and six touchdowns. Dowdle is also set to hit free agency, creating a need for a replacement. The Panthers’ rushing attack ranked 19th in the league, and with quarterback Bryce Young facing another critical season, adding a dynamic back like Walker could address both gaps. Canales’ familiarity with Walker, having worked with him during his rookie season in Seattle, adds a layer of connection. However, the Panthers will need to manage their cap space, as Walker is expected to command around $9 million annually. Las Vegas Raiders: Seahawks offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak now leads the Raiders, and he has expressed interest in pairing a running mate with 2025 first-rounder Ashton Jeanty. While the Raiders face significant needs, particularly on the offensive line, pairing Walker with Kubiak could create a high-impact tandem. If quarterback Fernando Mendoza is to succeed, having a reliable back like Walker would be crucial. Arizona Cardinals: The Cardinals’ season collapsed after James Conner suffered a season-ending injury, highlighting their reliance on the veteran back.#las_vegas_raiders #seattle_seahawks #carolina_panthers #kenneth_walker_iii #dave_canales
