Seahawks Unlikely to Use Franchise Tag on Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker

Team focused on extending other key free agents like WR Jaxon Smith-Njigba

Feb. 18, 2026 at 8:39am

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The Seattle Seahawks are reportedly unlikely to use their franchise tag on running back and Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III this offseason. The team has multiple free agents they want to retain and extend, including wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and the costs associated with the franchise tag make it an unlikely move for Walker.

Why it matters

The Seahawks' decision on whether to use the franchise tag on Walker could have major implications for the team's roster and salary cap management heading into the 2023 season. As the Super Bowl MVP, Walker's value is high, but the team may prioritize retaining other key players.

The details

Walker rushed for 135 yards and 2 touchdowns in the Seahawks' Super Bowl victory, becoming the first running back to win Super Bowl MVP since 1997. He is set to be an unrestricted free agent, and the projected cost of the franchise tag for running backs is $14.5 million. The Seahawks have only used the franchise tag twice in 16 seasons under GM John Schneider.

  • The NFL's franchise tag window opens on Tuesday, February 17, 2026 and runs through March 3, 2026.

The players

Kenneth Walker III

The Seahawks' starting running back and Super Bowl MVP.

Jaxon Smith-Njigba

The Seahawks' star wide receiver who the team is looking to extend.

John Schneider

The Seahawks' general manager who has only used the franchise tag twice in 16 seasons.

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What they’re saying

“The Seattle Seahawks are unlikely to use their franchise tag on running back and Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III, league sources told ESPN.”

— Adam Schefter, ESPN Reporter

What’s next

The Seahawks have until March 3, 2026 to decide whether to use the franchise tag on Kenneth Walker III or let him become an unrestricted free agent.

The takeaway

The Seahawks' decision on the franchise tag for Kenneth Walker III will be a key part of their offseason roster management, as they balance retaining their Super Bowl MVP running back with extending other important free agents like Jaxon Smith-Njigba.