Why the Commanders Should Be Watching Kenneth Walker III Closely on Super Bowl Sunday
While most fans are setting up their snacks and settling in for Super Bowl Sunday, the Washington Commanders’ front office will be watching with a different kind of intensity. This isn’t just the culmination of the NFL season-it’s a live audition for potential offseason targets.
And one name that should be front and center on their radar? Kenneth Walker III.
After a disappointing 5-win season, just a year removed from an NFC Championship appearance, the Commanders are at a crossroads. General manager Adam Peters took a big swing last offseason, banking on veteran talent and continuity to push the team over the top.
It didn’t land. Now, with a fresh offseason and a clean financial slate, it’s time for a new approach-one that prioritizes youth, upside, and long-term fit.
A New Direction-and a New Backfield?
The Commanders are working with limited draft capital-just two picks in the first four rounds of the 2026 NFL Draft-so free agency becomes even more critical. But the silver lining?
They’re projected to have more than $100 million in cap space if they make a few expected roster moves. That gives Peters a real opportunity to reshape this roster with impact players in their prime.
One of the most logical targets: Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III.
Walker isn’t built like your traditional bruiser, but don’t let that fool you-he’s a home-run hitter with legit every-down potential. He’s already eclipsed 1,000 rushing yards in two of his first four seasons and has piled up 4,560 yards from scrimmage and 31 touchdowns since entering the league. For a second-round pick, that’s exceptional production-and he’s still just 25 years old.
What makes Walker especially intriguing for Washington is how he’d fit into the offense being crafted by new coordinator David Blough. Blough is expected to install a more West Coast-style system, one that emphasizes timing, rhythm, and versatility. Walker’s ability to contribute both on the ground and as a pass-catcher makes him a natural fit for that kind of scheme, especially alongside a young quarterback like Jayden Daniels.
Building a Backfield That Can Carry the Load
Washington found a gem in seventh-round rookie Jacory Croskey-Merritt, and there’s a chance Chris Rodriguez Jr. returns as well. But if this team wants to build a balanced, dynamic offense, adding a proven weapon like Walker would go a long way. A backfield trio of Walker, Croskey-Merritt, and potentially Rodriguez could give the Commanders both explosiveness and depth-something they’ve lacked in recent years.
Yes, investing in running backs on second contracts comes with risk. But Walker’s projected deal-a four-year, $33.59 million contract averaging $8.39 million per year-isn’t the kind of number that breaks your cap. And for a player who’s been consistently productive and relatively durable, it could be a smart bet.
All Eyes on the Super Bowl
Walker’s performance in the Super Bowl could be a game-changer-not just for his current team, the Seahawks, but for his market value heading into free agency. Seattle has the cap space to keep him, but if they decide to allocate those dollars elsewhere, Washington could be one of the first teams in line.
For a franchise looking to retool and reenergize its offense, Walker checks a lot of boxes. He’s young, productive, and fits the vision of what this new Commanders regime is trying to build. If he shows out on the league’s biggest stage, don’t be surprised if Washington makes a serious run at him when free agency opens.
Because while fans are watching the Super Bowl for the spectacle, Adam Peters and the Commanders might be watching it to help shape their future.