Seahawks Unlikely to Tag Super Bowl MVP Running Back

Kenneth Walker III set to hit free agency after leading Seattle to championship

Feb. 19, 2026 at 12:55am

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The Seattle Seahawks are unlikely to use either the franchise or transition tag on running back Kenneth Walker III, making the 25-year-old Super Bowl MVP a free agent in 2026. According to ESPN insider Adam Schefter, the Seahawks are expected to turn to the 2026 NFL draft to find a cheaper, younger replacement for Walker.

Why it matters

The Seahawks' decision not to retain Walker could open the door for the Chicago Bears to sign the championship-caliber running back and pair him with their young star quarterback Caleb Williams, potentially boosting their Super Bowl aspirations.

The details

Walker was named Super Bowl MVP after helping the Seahawks win their second championship in franchise history. However, the team is reportedly ready to move on from the 25-year-old running back, with former NFL player and FOX Sports analyst Bucky Brooks saying the Seahawks will likely target a running back in the 2026 draft to replace Walker with a "younger and cheaper option."

  • On February 17, 2026, ESPN insider Adam Schefter reported that the Seahawks are unlikely to use either the franchise or transition tag on Kenneth Walker III.

The players

Kenneth Walker III

A 25-year-old running back who was named Super Bowl MVP after helping the Seattle Seahawks win their second championship.

Bucky Brooks

A former NFL player who is now an analyst for FOX Sports.

Caleb Williams

The young star quarterback of the Chicago Bears who led the team's offensive awakening in 2025.

Kevin Warren

The Chicago Bears' team president who has talked about winning multiple championships for the city of Chicago.

Ryan Poles

The general manager of the Chicago Bears.

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What they’re saying

“It's business, never personal.”

— Bucky Brooks, FOX Sports Analyst

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.