The Seahawks head into the 2026 offseason with more questions than answers-and at the center of it all is a decision that could shape the direction of their offense for years to come. Kenneth Walker III, fresh off a Super Bowl MVP performance, is a free agent. And while Seattle has several key players hitting the market-names like Coby Bryant, Josh Jobe, Boye Mafe, Rashid Shaheed, and Tariq Woolen-none of them carry the same weight, or the same urgency, as Walker.
Let’s be clear: this isn’t just about rewarding a player for a big postseason. It’s about recognizing what Walker means to this team, both on the field and in the locker room.
He didn’t just step up when the Seahawks needed him most-he took over. With Zach Charbonnet sidelined by a torn ACL during the NFC Divisional Round against the 49ers, Walker became the engine of Seattle’s offense.
He shouldered the load, delivered in the biggest moments, and reminded everyone why he was once one of the most dynamic backs in college football.
Now, the Seahawks are staring down a critical decision. Charbonnet’s injury complicates things.
His recovery timeline is still uncertain, which only adds more weight to the idea of bringing Walker back. This isn’t the time to gamble on depth or hope a replacement can replicate what Walker brings.
He’s proven he can be the lead back in a high-stakes playoff run. And with the Seahawks aiming to stay competitive in a loaded NFC, continuity in the backfield matters.
Sure, you can make the case that other free agents-like Woolen, Mafe, or Shaheed-might be harder to replace based purely on positional value. But running back value isn’t always about the position-it’s about the player.
And Walker is one of those rare backs who brings more than just production. He brings identity.
He brings energy. He brings the kind of spark that reminds fans of another iconic Seahawks runner-Marshawn Lynch.
That’s not to say Walker is Lynch. But in terms of what he means to the fanbase and the offense right now? The parallels are hard to ignore.
Letting him walk would be a misstep. He’s beloved in Seattle for good reason.
He’s a playmaker, a tone-setter, and now, a Super Bowl hero. The idea of starting the 2026 season without him in the backfield feels like a step backward for a team that’s clearly trying to build on its postseason momentum.
The message is simple: re-sign Kenneth Walker III. Make him the priority.
The Seahawks have some tough choices ahead, but this one shouldn’t be difficult. Walker has earned his spot-not just with stats, but with heart, timing, and performance when it mattered most.
Seattle has a chance to lock in a foundational piece of its offense. They’d be wise to take it.