Arlington Star Kenneth Walker Almost Quit Football

Super Bowl MVP nearly stopped playing in high school due to health concerns.

Published on Feb. 9, 2026

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Kenneth Walker III, the recent Super Bowl MVP, almost quit playing football during his junior year at Arlington High School in 2019. Walker texted his offensive coordinator late one night saying he was having trouble breathing and didn't think he could continue playing the sport.

Why it matters

Walker's story highlights the challenges young athletes can face with their physical and mental health, and how important it is for coaches and support systems to be there for players during difficult times. His perseverance and ultimate success at the highest level of football inspires others who may be considering giving up on their dreams.

The details

According to Arlington's offensive coordinator Adam Sykes, Walker texted him well after midnight during the spring of his junior year, saying he was having trouble breathing and didn't think he could play football anymore. Sykes was able to talk Walker through his concerns and convince him to keep playing, which ultimately led to Walker's standout senior season and college career that culminated in him being named Super Bowl MVP.

  • In the spring of 2019, during Kenneth Walker's junior year at Arlington High School.

The players

Kenneth Walker III

The recent Super Bowl MVP who almost quit football during his junior year of high school due to health concerns.

Adam Sykes

The offensive coordinator at Arlington High School who convinced Kenneth Walker to keep playing football after Walker expressed doubts about continuing.

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What they’re saying

“He said he was having some trouble breathing, and that he didn't think he could play football anymore.”

— Adam Sykes, Offensive Coordinator, Arlington High School

What’s next

Walker went on to have a standout senior season at Arlington High School, earning a scholarship to Michigan State University. He was then drafted in the 2nd round by the Seattle Seahawks, where he was named Super Bowl MVP in 2026.

The takeaway

Kenneth Walker's story is a powerful reminder that even the most talented athletes can face personal struggles, and that having a strong support system can make all the difference in helping them overcome those challenges and achieve their dreams.