Despite Super Bowl Glory, Seahawks May Let Kenneth Walker IV Walk - Here’s Who Could Come Calling
Kenneth Walker IV just finished writing his name into Seattle sports lore. A Super Bowl MVP performance, a Lombardi Trophy, and a postseason run that showcased his explosive playmaking in crunch time - it all seemed like the kind of résumé that earns you a long-term stay. But the Seahawks appear ready to go in another direction.
According to reports, Seattle is not expected to use the franchise tag - valued at roughly $14.2 million - to keep Walker in the building. That means the 25-year-old running back could be headed for free agency, where he’ll undoubtedly be one of the most coveted names on the market.
It’s a surprising twist. The Seahawks have cap space to spend and a roster fresh off a championship. Letting go of a player who just helped carry them through the postseason raises questions about their long-term strategy - and opens up some intriguing possibilities for teams in need of a dynamic back.
Let’s take a closer look at three teams that could make a serious play for Walker if Seattle lets him test the open market.
1. Jacksonville Jaguars: A Familiar Face, A Fresh Fit
At first glance, Jacksonville might not seem like the most obvious landing spot. They already have Travis Etienne in the fold, and the former first-round pick has been a focal point of the offense. But timing - and coaching connections - could make this more realistic than it seems.
Etienne is approaching free agency himself, and if his price tag ends up in the same ballpark as Walker’s, the Jaguars may opt for the younger option. Walker is two years younger and has less wear on his tires.
Plus, Jacksonville has a promising young back in Bhayshul Tuten, a 2025 draft pick they’re high on. That could give them the flexibility to move on from Etienne and pair Tuten with a proven lead back like Walker.
And here’s where things get interesting: Jaguars running backs coach Chad Morton was Walker’s first position coach in the NFL during his rookie year in Seattle. That familiarity could be a key factor. Morton knows exactly how to unlock Walker’s burst, vision, and ability to create in space - and in Doug Pederson’s offense, Walker’s skillset could shine even brighter.
2. Tennessee Titans: A Homecoming with Purpose
The Titans aren’t typically the first team mentioned when it comes to splashy running back signings. But this offseason, they’re sitting on nearly $100 million in projected cap space - and that changes the equation.
Tony Pollard gave them a solid season, but at age 29 and carrying a cap hit over $9 million, Tennessee might see an opportunity to reset the position. Walker, a Tennessee native, offers a younger, more explosive option with fresh legs and big-game experience.
More importantly, the Titans are entering a new era with quarterback Cam Ward. Giving a young QB a reliable ground game is a proven way to ease the transition - and Walker could be the perfect back to shoulder that load.
He’s not just a home-run hitter; he’s a tone-setter. And with the kind of cap flexibility the Titans have, they can afford to be bold in building a support system around their future under center.
3. Houston Texans: Underrated Need, Big Opportunity
The Texans have a rising star in CJ Stroud, but their offense took a noticeable step back this past season - and the absence of Joe Mixon was a big reason why. While Stroud’s development is still on track, Houston needs to reestablish balance, and that starts with the run game.
Kenneth Walker may not be the same type of dual-threat as Mixon, but what he brings is a dynamic, downhill presence that can punish defenses and take pressure off Stroud. With the right scheme and blocking, Walker has the potential to be a 1,200-yard back who can control the tempo of a game.
And let’s not overlook the financial angle. Texas has no state income tax, which gives the Texans a bit of an edge when it comes to luring free agents. If they want to make a play for a running back who’s just entering his prime - and who knows how to perform when the lights are brightest - Walker makes a lot of sense.
What’s Next for Walker?
It’s rare to see a Super Bowl MVP hit the open market, especially one as young and productive as Kenneth Walker IV. But if the Seahawks are indeed ready to move on, Walker’s next chapter could be just as impactful as his last.
Whether it’s a reunion with a former coach in Jacksonville, a homecoming in Tennessee, or a chance to help power a young contender in Houston, Walker’s market is shaping up to be one of the most fascinating storylines of the offseason.
And wherever he lands, one thing’s for sure: He’s not done making noise.