Seahawks' Sale Speculation Rises After Proposed 'Jock Tax'

Proposed 9.9% income tax on high-earning athletes in Washington state fuels talk of team's potential sale.

Feb. 3, 2026 at 10:07pm

Got story updates? Submit your updates here. ›

Speculation is mounting that the Seattle Seahawks could be sold after Super Bowl LX, coinciding with the proposal of a new 'jock tax' in Washington state that would impose a 9.9% income tax on high-earning professional athletes. The potential tax, targeting incomes above $1 million, has raised concerns among players and team owners about the financial impact.

Why it matters

The proposed 'jock tax' is seen as a symptom of Washington state's budget challenges, with lawmakers looking to extract more revenue from high-earners. The timing of the Seahawks sale speculation has fueled questions about whether the potential tax is making team ownership less attractive, potentially accelerating the franchise's sale.

The details

Under the proposed 'jock tax', professional athletes could pay a 9.9% state income tax on earnings generated during their time in Washington, potentially costing top earners tens of thousands of dollars per game. The tax would apply to both visiting and home-team athletes based on 'duty days' spent in the state. Supporters argue the tax is necessary to address Washington's regressive tax system, while critics say it's an attempt to extract more wealth from the private sector.

  • The details of the proposed 'jock tax' went public in early 2026.
  • The potential sale of the Seahawks was reported to be in the works after Super Bowl LX, which is scheduled for February 8, 2026.

The players

Ryan Frost

Director of Budget and Tax Policy at the Washington Policy Center think tank.

Jody Allen

Current owner of the Seattle Seahawks, taking over after the death of her brother, Paul Allen, in 2018.

Bob Ferguson

Governor of Washington state.

Jamie Pedersen

Washington state Senate Majority Leader, representing Seattle.

Got photos? Submit your photos here. ›

What they’re saying

“While the 'jock tax' is standard in states with income taxes, I doubt our Seahawks, Mariners and Kraken players will be thrilled about losing 10% of their salaries.”

— Ryan Frost, Director of Budget and Tax Policy (The Center Square)

“We don't comment on rumors or speculation, and the team is not for sale. We've already said that will change at some point per Paul's wishes, but there is no news to share. Our focus right now is winning the Super Bowl and completing the sale of the Portland Trail Blazers in the coming months.”

— Jody Allen (The Seattle Times)

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.