Seattle QB to Pay More in Super Bowl Taxes Than Game Earnings

Jock tax policy in California leads to hefty tax bill for Seahawks QB Sam Darnold

Published on Feb. 12, 2026

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Seattle Seahawks quarterback Sam Darnold will pay up to $250,000 in taxes for playing in the Super Bowl, which is more than the $178,000 he will earn for being on the winning team. This is due to California's "jock tax" policy that taxes out-of-state players based on the number of "duty days" they spend in the state for the game.

Why it matters

The jock tax is a controversial policy that has drawn criticism from professional athletes who feel they are being unfairly targeted. This case highlights how the tax can significantly impact player earnings, especially for those on the winning team of the high-profile Super Bowl event.

The details

According to reports, Darnold will be charged the jock tax for at least 8 "duty days" he spends in California for the Super Bowl. This means he will have to pay up to $250,000 in taxes, which exceeds the $178,000 the NFL pays players on the winning Super Bowl team.

  • The Super Bowl will take place on February 11, 2026.

The players

Sam Darnold

The starting quarterback for the Seattle Seahawks.

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What they’re saying

“I can't even wrap my mind around this!”

— John Doe, Author (kolafm.com)

What’s next

The NFL and players' union are expected to continue discussions about reforming the jock tax policy ahead of future Super Bowls.

The takeaway

This case highlights the financial burden the jock tax places on professional athletes, especially those participating in high-profile events like the Super Bowl, and raises questions about the fairness and effectiveness of this tax policy.