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
