With the 2025 NFL season in the books, the Seattle Seahawks are staring down one of their biggest offseason questions: What happens next with Kenneth Walker?
The Super Bowl MVP is set to hit free agency, and there’s no doubt he’ll have plenty of suitors. After a postseason that saw him elevate his game on the biggest stage, Walker’s value has never been higher. He’s no longer just the explosive former second-round pick with sky-high potential-he’s now a proven difference-maker when it matters most.
Seattle has the cap space to bring him back, and on the surface, a reunion makes a lot of sense. But in a league where running backs often face short windows to cash in, Walker’s market could push him elsewhere.
One team that’s already being linked to him? The Houston Texans.
It’s not hard to see the fit. Houston’s run game lacked punch last season, and with Joe Mixon sidelined all year due to a lingering foot issue-and unlikely to return-the Texans are light on proven options in the backfield. Woody Marks and Jawhar Jordan have shown flashes, but neither has the résumé or the game-breaking ability that Walker brings to the table.
Walker’s 2025 campaign was a statement. After battling injuries earlier in his career, he stayed healthy and reminded everyone why he was such a dynamic prospect coming out of Michigan State.
His blend of burst, vision, and balance through contact makes him one of the most complete backs set to hit the market. He’s the kind of player who can turn a routine run into a 40-yard gain and take pressure off a young quarterback like C.J.
Stroud-something that could be a game-changer for a Houston offense looking to take the next step.
According to Spotrac projections, Walker could command a four-year, $36 million deal in free agency. That’s a significant investment, especially for a Texans team currently projected to be $1.4 million over the cap. But if there’s a position worth stretching the budget for, it’s one that can directly impact your franchise quarterback’s development-and Walker fits that mold.
Of course, none of this rules out a return to Seattle. The Seahawks have the financial flexibility and a system that clearly fits Walker’s skill set.
But if he does hit the open market, don’t be surprised if Houston makes a strong push. They need a spark in the run game, and Kenneth Walker might just be the jolt they’re looking for.