Walker, who has been a cornerstone of Seattle’s backfield since being drafted in 2022, didn’t mince words when reflecting on his season. “The start of my season was ass,” he admitted candidly, describing how it prompted late-night conversations with his father. But it was his follow-up remarks that raised eyebrows across the league: “You can’t control how many times you get taken out or how many reps you get… I can’t control that. I can just control… what I do with my opportunities.”

While Walker stopped short of demanding a trade or criticizing the coaching staff outright, his words carry weight. They highlight a player who sees himself as a game-changer but feels his usage hasn’t always matched his potential. This isn’t just offseason chatter; it’s a strategic reminder of his value as he approaches unrestricted free agency.

The Timing Couldn’t Be More Critical

With the NFL’s legal tampering period set to begin on March 9 and free agency officially opening at 4 p.m. ET on March 11—the start of the 2026 league year—Walker’s comments add urgency to Seattle’s offseason decisions. The Seahawks must now weigh whether to extend their star running back or risk losing him to a bidding war.

Projections from industry analysts, including recent reports from ESPN and The Athletic, estimate Walker’s market value at $8-12 million annually. Coming off a solid 2025 campaign where he rushed 221 times for 1,027 yards and five touchdowns, Walker’s career stats—821 carries for 3,555 yards and 29 touchdowns—make him one of the most sought-after free agents in his position group.

But Walker’s message isn’t just about money; it’s about opportunity. Despite his MVP performance in Super Bowl LX, where he powered Seattle’s ground game to victory, he alluded to being “taken out” early in games, suggesting a committee approach that limited his touches. “I stayed ready and produced when it mattered,” he implied, positioning himself as a resilient leader ready for a bigger role—wherever that may be.

Complications in the Backfield

Adding another layer of complexity is the injury to backup running back Zach Charbonnet. According to Reuters, Charbonnet underwent surgery to repair a torn ACL and is projected to miss a significant portion of the 2026 season. This development disrupts Seattle’s running back-by-committee strategy, making Walker even more indispensable in the short term.

If Charbonnet’s recovery timeline extends into the regular season, the Seahawks could face a backfield crisis without Walker. Head coach Mike Macdonald has preached versatility in the offense, but losing both key rushers would force a rebuild at the position—potentially through the draft or free agency signings.

What’s Next for Walker and the Seahawks?

As the clock ticks toward March 11, Seattle’s front office, led by general manager John Schneider, has a few paths forward:

1. Secure an Extension: Negotiate a multi-year deal before the tampering window opens, locking in Walker at a potentially team-friendly rate.
2. Test the Market: Allow Walker to gauge interest from other teams, but be prepared to match offers if they escalate beyond expectations.
3. Franchise Tag Consideration: Though reports from Pro Football Talk and NFL Network suggest it’s unlikely due to the $12-14 million cap hit for running backs, the tag could buy time for long-term talks.

Walker’s YouTube appearance doesn’t scream ultimatum, but it does underscore his self-awareness and professionalism. He’s not complaining; he’s affirming his worth after delivering a championship. “I know what kind of player I am,” his words suggest—and now the Seahawks must decide if they’re willing to pay for that player or pivot to a post-Walker era.

As free agency looms, all eyes are on Seattle. Will they retain their Super Bowl hero, or will Walker take his talents elsewhere? Stay tuned for updates as the offseason heats up.