Seahawks' Biggest Needs This Offseason Stem from Star Departures

Seattle faces uncertainty at running back and cornerback with Kenneth Walker III and Riq Woolen set to hit free agency.

Published on Mar. 8, 2026

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The Seattle Seahawks are coming off a Super Bowl 60 championship, but they're set to lose several key players in free agency, including running back Kenneth Walker III and cornerback Riq Woolen. As a result, the Seahawks' biggest needs this offseason are at those two positions, as they look to keep their roster strong despite the potential departures of their stars.

Why it matters

The Seahawks have built a well-rounded roster, but the potential losses of Walker and Woolen could create significant holes that need to be addressed. Retaining their own free agents or finding suitable replacements will be crucial for Seattle to maintain their championship-caliber team.

The details

Walker and Woolen are both set to hit free agency after breakout seasons. Walker was the Super Bowl MVP, while Woolen emerged as one of the league's top young cornerbacks. The Seahawks will need to decide whether to re-sign these players or look elsewhere to fill those positions. They also have other free agents like Josh Jobe, Boye Mafe, and Rashid Shaheed that they'll need to consider.

  • The Seahawks' free agents will hit the open market on March 15, 2026.

The players

Kenneth Walker III

A running back who had a breakout season and was named Super Bowl MVP, making him a highly sought-after free agent.

Riq Woolen

A cornerback who emerged as one of the league's top young defensive backs, and is likely to command a significant contract in free agency.

Josh Jobe

A cornerback who could be a more affordable option for the Seahawks if they can't retain Woolen.

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What they’re saying

“Biggest need: The Seahawks don't have any glaring needs yet, so their goal will be to keep as many of their free agents as possible. The Seahawks will need to add a running back if they can't re-sign Kenneth Walker III, and they might need help at cornerback as well.”

— Brady Henderson, ESPN (ESPN)

What’s next

The Seahawks will need to decide whether to re-sign Walker and Woolen or look to the free agent market and draft to fill those positions. They'll also need to consider the futures of their other free agents as they work to maintain their championship-caliber roster.

The takeaway

The Seahawks' biggest needs this offseason stem from the potential departures of two of their star players, Kenneth Walker III and Riq Woolen. Retaining or replacing these key contributors will be crucial for Seattle to remain a contender in the NFC.