Seahawks QB Faces Hefty California Tax Bill After Super Bowl Win

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Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold is facing a sizable tax bill from the state of California following his team's Super Bowl victory. Due to California's 'jock tax,' which requires professional athletes to pay state income tax on earnings allocated to games and work performed in the state, Darnold will reportedly owe more to California than the roughly $178,000 he earned for the game itself.

Why it matters

The situation has drawn attention in Washington state as lawmakers debate a proposed 9.9% tax on income above $1 million, which could similarly impact professional athletes playing in Washington. The proposed tax is part of broader income tax legislation aimed at high earners and has raised concerns about the potential for a wider tax footprint than advertised.

The details

Using a 'duty-day' formula that counts practices, meetings, and game days tied to the event, Darnold's California tax bill is expected to exceed his Super Bowl earnings. California imposes the highest state income tax in the country, with a top marginal rate exceeding 13% on income above $1 million, in addition to federal taxes.

• The Super Bowl victory took place at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California on February 11, 2026.

What’s next

The debate over the proposed income tax in Washington state is ongoing, and the potential impact on professional athletes playing in the state remains a key point of discussion.