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Seahawks Let MVP Go: Injuries, Contract Disputes Surface
26 Oct
Summary
- Kenneth Walker III signed a three-year, $43 million contract with the Chiefs.
- Seahawks had injury concerns and offered less than half of Chiefs' deal.
- An awkward exchange at the parade may have signaled Walker's exit.
Kenneth Walker III, the Super Bowl LX MVP, is now a star running back for the Kansas City Chiefs, having signed a three-year, $43 million contract in March. This move came after his departure from the Seattle Seahawks, where he spent four seasons. Reports indicate the Seahawks had reservations about Walker's availability due to his injury history throughout his tenure.
Seattle's willingness to offer a contract was limited, reportedly to around $10 million per season, significantly less than the Chiefs' approximately $14.3 million annual salary. Furthermore, the Seahawks preferred a timeshare in their backfield, while Kansas City offered Walker a featured role. An unusual public comment by Seahawks General Manager John Schneider during the team's championship parade, which Walker later disputed, has also resurfaced as a potential catalyst for his exit.
Despite the circumstances of his departure, Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald praised Walker's current performance with the Chiefs, acknowledging his strengths. Walker himself stated that his priority was joining a competitive team with a chance to contend for another championship, finding that opportunity with the Chiefs and quarterback Patrick Mahomes. The running back has quickly become a central figure in Kansas City's offense, leading the league in rushing yards and touchdowns.
