Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III Set to Hit Free Agency

The Seattle Seahawks are not expected to place the franchise tag on the star running back.

Published on Mar. 3, 2026

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Kenneth Walker III, the MVP of Super Bowl LX, is set to become an unrestricted free agent after the Seattle Seahawks decided not to place the franchise tag on him. The 24-year-old running back had a standout season, rushing for 1,027 yards and 5 touchdowns in the regular season, and adding 313 rushing yards and 4 touchdowns in the playoffs to help the Seahawks win their first championship in over a decade.

Why it matters

Walker's impending free agency is a surprise move by the Seahawks, who are coming off a Super Bowl win. As the reigning Super Bowl MVP, Walker is poised to command a lucrative contract on the open market, with several teams expected to pursue the talented young running back.

The details

Despite splitting time with fellow running back Zach Charbonnet during the regular season, Walker emerged as the lead back in the playoffs after Charbonnet suffered a season-ending ACL tear. In the Super Bowl, Walker's 161 scrimmage yards helped propel the Seahawks to victory and earned him the game's MVP award. With the Seahawks declining to use the $14.293 million franchise tag on Walker, he is now free to sign with any team when the new league year opens on March 11.

  • The Seattle Seahawks are not expected to place the franchise tag on Kenneth Walker III by the 4 p.m. EST deadline on Tuesday, March 3, 2026.
  • NFL free agency begins at the start of the new league year on March 11, 2026.

The players

Kenneth Walker III

The 24-year-old running back who was named Super Bowl LX MVP after helping the Seattle Seahawks win their first championship in over a decade.

Zach Charbonnet

The Seahawks' other running back who suffered a season-ending ACL tear in the Divisional Round of the playoffs, allowing Walker to take on a larger role.

Adam Schefter

The ESPN reporter who broke the news that the Seahawks are not expected to place the franchise tag on Kenneth Walker III.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“Sources: the Seattle Seahawks are not expected to tag Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III, who now is poised to become an unrestricted free agent when the new league year opens.”

— Adam Schefter (Twitter)

What’s next

The judge in the case will decide on Tuesday whether or not to allow Walker Reed Quinn out on bail.

The takeaway

This case highlights growing concerns in the community about repeat offenders released on bail, raising questions about bail reform, public safety on SF streets, and if any special laws to govern autonomous vehicles in residential and commercial areas.