Imagine the reigning Super Bowl MVP hitting the open market. It sounds like a plot twist from a sports drama, but that's exactly what might happen with Kenneth Walker III. According to ESPN's Adam Schefter, the Seattle Seahawks are unlikely to franchise tag Walker, setting him up to become an unrestricted free agent when the new NFL league year begins on March 11—unless, of course, both sides agree on a new deal before then. But here's where it gets controversial: If Walker does sign elsewhere, he’ll join an exclusive club as only 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 leave a gaping hole in Seattle’s backfield, but it might be a strategic move to free up cap space for looming contract extensions for stars like Sam Darnold, Jaxon Smith-Njigba, and Devon Witherspoon.
Walker, a 25-year-old dynamo drafted in the second round out of Michigan State in 2022, has been a cornerstone of the Seahawks’ ground game. As a rookie, he burst onto the scene with 1,050 rushing yards and nine touchdowns, followed by 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. After Zach Charbonnet’s season-ending ACL tear in the NFC Divisional Round, Walker took the reins, rushing for 313 yards and four touchdowns in three playoff games. His Super Bowl performance was nothing short of stellar: 135 rushing yards, two receptions for 26 yards, and a pivotal role in the Seahawks’ 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots.
So, why let him walk? It’s a question that’s sparked heated debates among fans and analysts alike. While Walker’s contributions are undeniable, the Seahawks face a salary cap crunch with multiple star players in line for big extensions. Is it wise to let a Super Bowl MVP go, or is this a necessary sacrifice for long-term success? Let’s just say opinions are divided.
If Walker does hit the market, several teams are expected to vie for his services. The New York Giants, Washington Commanders, Minnesota Vikings, New Orleans Saints, Arizona Cardinals, Denver Broncos, and Kansas City Chiefs are all potential suitors. Among them, the Chiefs stand out as 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. Of course, the Chiefs need to clear cap space first, but once they do, they could be a serious contender for Walker’s signature.
The Giants, meanwhile, have been linked to Walker, according to ESPN’s Jordan Raanan. Under new head coach John Harbaugh, who prioritized the run during his tenure with the Baltimore Ravens, Walker could thrive as the focal point of a ground-heavy offense. However, the Giants already have 2025 fourth-round pick Cam Skattebo, who showed promise as a rookie before suffering leg and ankle injuries. Would Walker be an upgrade, or is Skattebo enough? It’s a question Giants fans are eagerly debating.
Walker’s situation raises broader questions about the NFL’s approach to valuing running backs. In an era where teams often prioritize passing attacks, is a Super Bowl MVP running back still worth a hefty contract? Or are teams better off investing in other positions? What do you think? Is letting Walker go a smart move for the Seahawks, or will they come to regret it? Share your thoughts in the comments—this is one debate that’s far from over.
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