Commanders just watched their dream free agent slip away for good

Following Super Bowl 60, the Washington Commanders will have to adjust their board of free agency targets.
Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) runs the ball during the second quarter against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images
Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III (9) runs the ball during the second quarter against the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images | Darren Yamashita-Imagn Images

On Sunday, the sports world watched the Seattle Seahawks defeat the New England Patriots 29-13 in Super Bowl 60. During the game, the Washington Commanders watched the event they hope to one day play in, and they also watched a player they would likely love to sign this offseason. That player is Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker, and after his performance in the Super Bowl, Washington probably won’t have the opportunity to sign him.

Walker was the only bright spot for either offense in the first half, carrying the ball 14 times for 94 yards, and adding a six-yard reception. He ultimately finished the game with 27 rushes for 135 yards, and won Super Bowl MVP. The veteran running back entered Sunday’s game as a key piece for Seattle, and he proved again just how important he is to the team. With that message made clear on the biggest stage, the Seahawks are unlikely to let Walker even reach free agency this offseason.

Commanders can say goodbye to possible free agent target Kenneth Walker

As Washington tries to improve its roster this offseason, it’s clear that running back is a position the team must address. In 2025, the team was led by Jacory Croskey-Merritt with 805 rushing yards, and Chris Rodriguez with 500. While there is excitement surrounding fan-favorite Croskey-Merritt, the Commanders need more help in their backfield.

Walker would be the perfect addition after the four seasons he just had in Seattle. In 2025, the veteran running back played in all 17 games, carrying the ball 221 times for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns, while also adding 31 receptions for 282 yards. Walker posted that production while splitting carries with Zach Charbonnet, who had 184 rushes for 730 yards and 12 touchdowns.

If Walker enters free agency, the Commanders will likely be one of many suitors. However, especially after the veteran running back’s Super Bowl performance, Seattle probably won't let that happen. The Seahawks will either agree to a long-term extension with Kenneth Walker, or they will use the franchise tag on the veteran rusher. Either way, the running back will likely be returning to Seattle, which means the Commanders will have to look elsewhere for running back help.

Loading recommendations... Please wait while we load personalized content recommendations