The Seattle Seahawks are heading into uncharted territory. According to reports, the franchise will officially be put up for sale following Super Bowl LX - a move that not only marks a major shift for one of the NFL’s most consistent organizations but also sets the stage for what could be a record-breaking transaction in the world of pro sports.
This development comes after years of speculation about the team’s long-term future following the 2018 passing of former owner Paul G. Allen.
Since then, the Seahawks have been under the stewardship of Allen’s estate, with his sister, Jody Allen, serving as executor. Paul Allen had made it clear in his directives that his vast sports holdings - which include the Seahawks and the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers - would eventually be sold, with proceeds directed toward philanthropic efforts.
Now, that moment appears to be arriving. While neither the team nor the league has issued an official statement, multiple league and ownership sources have confirmed that sale discussions have picked up serious momentum in recent days. The timing is significant: if the Seahawks are listed right after the Super Bowl, it would be the first time in the Super Bowl era that a team fresh off playing in the big game hits the market.
A Billion-Dollar Bidding War on the Horizon
From a business and league perspective, attention now turns to the potential price tag - and who might be lining up to pay it.
Sportico currently values the Seahawks at $6.59 billion, but insiders suggest the final sale price could push even higher, potentially landing somewhere between $7 billion and $8 billion. That figure would shatter the current record for an NFL franchise sale, set just last year when the Washington Commanders changed hands for $6.05 billion.
A Super Bowl appearance only adds to the franchise’s appeal. The Seahawks are not only a well-run organization with a passionate fan base and a strong brand, but they also play in a major media market with a state-of-the-art stadium and a proven track record of success. That’s the kind of package that attracts deep-pocketed buyers.
Who’s in the Mix?
Naturally, the rumor mill is already churning.
Jeff Bezos’ name is once again front and center. The Amazon founder has long been linked to NFL ownership and has previously explored buying into the league.
His ties to Seattle and seemingly limitless resources make him an obvious candidate. If Bezos steps in, he could leverage the NFL’s evolving ownership rules, which now allow approved private equity firms to own up to 10% of a franchise - a potentially attractive structure for a group led by one of the world’s wealthiest individuals.
Other names being floated in media circles and local speculation include former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer (already the owner of the NBA’s Clippers), former Starbucks CEO Howard Schultz (who previously owned the Seattle SuperSonics), and even Bill Gates. While some of these names are more grounded than others, the list underscores just how high-profile this sale could become.
There’s also been some buzz - albeit more speculative - about interest from sovereign wealth funds or even a potential bid involving Elon Musk. At this stage, no formal offers have been made public, but with the franchise expected to hit the market soon, don’t be surprised if new names enter the conversation quickly.
The NFL’s Approval Process: Not Just About the Money
Of course, buying an NFL team isn’t as simple as writing a check - even a multibillion-dollar one. Any prospective buyer must pass through the league’s vetting and approval process, which requires a three-fourths vote from current owners.
While influential figures like Jerry Jones and Robert Kraft don’t have unilateral power to approve or block a sale, their voices carry significant weight within league circles. Beyond financial capability, the NFL looks closely at whether potential owners align with the league’s values, long-term vision, and existing ownership structure.
Relationships matter. So does image.
This is a club - and not just anyone gets in.
A Franchise at a Crossroads
The Seahawks' impending sale will be one of the most closely watched developments in the sports business world this year. It’s not just about who buys the team - it’s about what it means for the franchise, the city of Seattle, and the NFL as a whole.
This is a rare moment. A Super Bowl-caliber team, in a major market, with a passionate fan base and a legacy of stability, is about to change hands.
The stakes are high. The bidders will be bold.
And the ripple effects could be felt across the league for years to come.