Shortly after being named Super Bowl MVP, Kenneth Walker III reportedly approached Seattle Seahawks General Manager John Schneider with a proposal to extend his contract during the team’s Super Bowl parade. The conversation drew attention given Walker’s rising value, but the running back later denied starting any formal negotiation at that event. With Walker’s contract set to expire, the Seahawks face a critical decision about securing their star running back for the coming seasons.
Walker’s demand for a long-term deal is understandable after his outstanding performance at Super Bowl LX, where he was recognized as Seattle’s MVP, surpassing kicker Jason Myers and punter Michael Dixon. Just days post-championship, Schneider shared publicly that Walker had initiated contract talks during the parade celebrations.
Ken [Kenneth] Walker being the MVP, let’s go. He tried negotiating with me five minutes ago. It was really weird.
John Schneider, Seahawks General Manager
Walker was visibly present at the parade, standing alongside teammates on the stage. However, he took to Instagram later to dispute Schneider’s claim.
Must have been da liquor [alcohol] he [was] drinking, cuz I never said that (expletive).
Kenneth Walker III, Running Back
The playful back-and-forth was further highlighted by sports journalist Mike Garafolo, who tweeted:
Any negotiations with a red Solo cup in hand are null and void 🤣#Seahawks GM John Schneider having some fun at the Super Bowl parade today. Real, sober negotiations with Kenneth Walker III to come.
Mike Garafolo, NFL Reporter
While the exact details remain clouded by jest and differing recollections, the substantive issue is clear: Walker will become a free agent if the Seahawks decide against extending his contract or applying the franchise tag ahead of the 2026 NFL season.
Seahawks Weighing Options Amid Walker’s Contract Situation
Due to the fact that Kenneth Walker III was not selected in the first round of the NFL Draft, the Seahawks lack the option to pick up a fifth-year extension on his rookie deal. This situation makes contract extension talks or the franchise tag critical decisions for the franchise.
If the Seahawks use the franchise tag, Walker will be guaranteed a salary of $14.5 million for the 2026 season, according to Spotrac data. Alternatively, Seattle could pursue a long-term agreement, with contracts reportedly ranging up to $33.5 million over four years, equating to approximately $8 million annually. More lucrative terms could push the annual salary as high as $13.5 million, potentially resulting in a three-year contract worth $40.5 million.
Kenneth Walker’s Historic Super Bowl MVP and Personal Reflections
Walker’s Super Bowl MVP honor is significant not only for himself but historically, as running backs rarely receive this accolade. He became the first running back since Terrell Davis in Super Bowl 32 to earn MVP honors, joining a distinguished list of eight players at the position to win the award. Others include Larry Csonka, Franco Harris, John Riggins, Marcus Allen, Ottis Anderson, and Emmitt Smith.
This achievement was even more meaningful because it unfolded in front of his father, who typically avoids crowded stadiums. Speaking with reporters after the game, Walker shared the emotional weight of his father attending his first NFL game — a Super Bowl victory.
It means a lot, especially my little brother and my dad. My dad, he comes out to Seattle all the time and watches games, but he never goes to the games because he don’t like crowds. So this was his first NFL game, and we won a Super Bowl. So it means a lot to me, and I know he’s proud of me.
Kenneth Walker III, Running Back
Michael-Shawn Dugar of The Athletic further provided insight into Walker’s family perspectives via Twitter:
Ken Walker III says this was his dad’s first NFL game. Dad comes to Seattle a lot but typically doesn’t attend because he doesn’t like crowds. But Ken says his agent talked pops into attending the Super Bowl.
Michael-Shawn Dugar, Sports Journalist
Walker’s Journey from College to NFL Stardom
Walker’s football path involved playing college ball initially at Wake Forest before transferring to Michigan State University. The Seahawks selected him in the second round of the draft. Since entering the NFL, Walker has showcased durability and productivity across 58 games, accumulating 821 rushing attempts for 3,555 yards and 29 rushing touchdowns. He has also added 133 receptions for 1,005 yards and two receiving touchdowns, reflecting his versatility as a skill player.
As the Seahawks prepare for critical roster decisions, the outcome of negotiations with Kenneth Walker III will have lasting implications on the team’s offensive capabilities and salary cap structure for the near future.
Any negotiations with a red Solo cup in hand are null and void 🤣#Seahawks GM John Schneider having some fun at the Super Bowl parade today. Real, sober negotiations with Kenneth Walker III to come. pic.twitter.com/hKxa6tidU2
— Mike Garafolo (@MikeGarafolo) February 11, 2026
Ken Walker III says this was his dad’s first NFL game. Dad comes to Seattle a lot but typically doesn’t attend because he doesn’t like crowds. But Ken says his agent talked pops into attending the Super Bowl. pic.twitter.com/0xsPmfJErb
— Dugar, Michael-Shawn (@MikeDugar) February 9, 2026
