Seattle Seahawks general manager John Schneider is keeping his cards close to his chest when it comes to Kenneth Walker's future with the team. During a chat at the 2026 NFL combine, Schneider was asked about the possibility of using the franchise tag on Walker.
His response? A playful, "That's a good try, Bob," to Seattle Times reporter Bob Condotta.
Schneider made it clear that the Seahawks would "love to have Ken back." But as a seasoned GM, he knows the unpredictable nature of NFL business. What Walker delivered in 2025 might not be replicable in the future.
Kenneth Walker is undeniably a talented running back. His blend of explosiveness and power was pivotal for the Seahawks, especially late in the season.
His performance earned him the Super Bowl LX MVP title. However, Walker's past seasons have seen him miss games and struggle with consistency, sometimes failing to hit the 4 yards per carry mark.
The Seahawks certainly need Walker, but they must be cautious about overpaying. Running backs endure a lot of physical toll, and their careers tend to be shorter than other positions. The big question is how Walker will hold up moving forward.
Schneider's stance is clear: he wants Walker back. While the franchise tag is an option, it's not likely. Over his 16-year tenure, Schneider has used the tag sparingly, notably on edge rusher Frank Clark, which was part of a tag-and-trade deal with the Chiefs.
The Seahawks are likely aiming for a three-year deal with Walker, structured with no guaranteed money after the first year. This approach aligns with Schneider's typical strategy.
Bringing Walker back would be ideal, but not at any cost. The GM is known for his prudent financial management, and that’s not changing for Walker.