Hold onto your helmets, football fans, because one of the NFL’s most electrifying players is about to hit the open market. Kenneth Walker III, the reigning Super Bowl MVP, reportedly won’t be receiving the Seahawks' franchise tag, setting the stage for one of the most intriguing free agency sagas in recent memory. But here’s where it gets controversial: is letting a Super Bowl hero walk really the smartest move for Seattle? Let’s dive into the details and explore where Walker might land next.
According to ESPN’s Adam Schefter, the Seattle Seahawks are unlikely to place the franchise tag on Walker, meaning he’ll become an unrestricted free agent when the new league year begins on March 11—unless, of course, both sides agree to a new deal before then. If Walker does sign elsewhere, he’ll join an exclusive club as just the fourth reigning Super Bowl MVP in NFL history to switch teams the following season, alongside Larry Brown, Desmond Howard, and Dexter Jackson. And this is the part most people miss: Walker’s departure would mark a significant shift for Seattle, but it’s not without reason.
With a laundry list of star players—like quarterback Sam Darnold, wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and cornerback Devon Witherspoon—needing contract extensions soon, the Seahawks might be prioritizing financial flexibility over retaining their championship-winning running back. But does that make it the right call? That’s a debate for another day.
Walker, a 25-year-old dynamo drafted in the second round out of Michigan State in 2022, has been a standout performer in Seattle. After rushing for 1,050 yards and nine touchdowns as a rookie, he followed up with 905 yards and eight scores in 2023. While his production dipped in 2024—partly due to injuries limiting him to 11 games—he still showcased his talent, especially during the postseason. With Zach Charbonnet sidelined by a torn ACL, Walker took the reins, rushing for 313 yards and four touchdowns in three playoff games. His Super Bowl performance was nothing short of legendary: 135 rushing yards, two receptions for 26 yards, and a pivotal role in the Seahawks’ 29-13 victory over the Patriots.
So, where could Walker end up? Several teams in dire need of a running back are expected to show interest, including the New York Giants, Washington Commanders, Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos, and Kansas City Chiefs. Speaking of the Chiefs, they might be the most intriguing fit. With Patrick Mahomes returning from a torn ACL, a reliable running game could be the missing piece for Kansas City’s offense—something they’ve lacked in recent years. But there’s a catch: the Chiefs need to clear cap space first. Still, if they do, Walker could be the perfect addition to their championship-caliber roster.
The Giants, meanwhile, have been linked to Walker, according to ESPN’s Jordan Raanan. Under new head coach John Harbaugh, who’s known for his commitment to the run game, Walker could thrive as the focal point of New York’s offense. However, the Giants already have 2025 fourth-round pick Cam Skattebo, who showed promise as a rookie before suffering serious leg and ankle injuries. Would Walker be an upgrade, or is Skattebo enough? That’s a question Giants fans are eagerly debating.
Here’s the bigger question for everyone: Is letting a Super Bowl MVP walk a smart business decision, or a risky gamble? And which team do you think would benefit most from signing Walker? Let us know in the comments—this is one conversation you won’t want to miss!
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