The Seattle Seahawks are not expected to use the franchise tag on running back Kenneth Walker III, according to reports from ESPN”s Adam Schefter. The franchise tag window opened on Thursday, leading to speculation about the future of the Super Bowl MVP.
Sources indicate that the Seahawks are unlikely to tag Walker before the March 3 deadline. While discussions about extending other free agents and Jaxon Smith-Njigba have surfaced, these matters do not significantly influence the Seahawks” decision-making regarding the franchise tag.
Throughout his 16 seasons as general manager, John Schneider has only used the franchise tag twice, on kicker Olindo Mare and defensive end Frank Clark. Mare played under the tag but did not sign an extension and left the following offseason, while Clark was traded to the Kansas City Chiefs, generating an additional first-round draft pick that the Seahawks utilized on L.J. Collier.
Financial considerations also play a role in the Seahawks” decision. Tagging Walker would cost approximately $14.5 million in 2026, a figure higher than what other high-profile running backs like Kyren Williams or Christian McCaffrey are projected to earn. This one-year deal would also mean that the entire amount would come off the salary cap, which adds to the financial burden if Walker were to only play under the tag.
While there is a possibility that Walker could be tagged and then sign an extension, the Seahawks have not typically pursued this route. Historically, running backs are rarely tagged and subsequently receive new contracts. In fact, since 2010, only three running backs have been tagged and then signed new deals: Derrick Henry, Matt Forte, and Ray Rice. Other running backs who were tagged often left or sat out the season, as was the case with Le”Veon Bell.
If the Seahawks intend to retain Walker, they might allow him to explore the free-agent market first, potentially bringing him back with a favorable offer. However, it seems unlikely that the franchise tag will be part of the equation for the Seahawks or Walker this offseason.
This summary highlights the current situation surrounding Walker and the Seahawks, emphasizing their historical tendencies and financial implications. For further details, you can refer to the full article.
