SANTA CLARA, Calif. – The Seattle Seahawks are Super Bowl LX champions, and Kenneth Walker III is the unlikely hero who hoisted the Lombardi Trophy. In a game dominated by defensive prowess, it was Walker’s consistent performance that earned him the Most Valuable Player award, marking the first time a running back has claimed the honor since Terrell Davis in 1998.
The Seahawks defeated the New England Patriots 29-13 on , at Levi’s Stadium. While the final score suggests a comfortable victory, the game was a hard-fought battle, with Seattle’s defense setting the tone. However, when the offense needed a spark, Walker delivered.
Walker finished the game with 161 yards from scrimmage – 135 rushing and 26 receiving – proving to be a dual threat that the Patriots struggled to contain. His ability to exploit outside runs was particularly effective against the New England defense. This performance capped off a stellar postseason run for the 25-year-old, who averaged over 100 yards from scrimmage in each of Seattle’s three playoff games.
The road to Super Bowl glory wasn’t without its challenges for Walker. He was thrust into the primary ball-carrier role after teammate Zach Charbonnet suffered a season-ending ACL injury during the Divisional Round win against the San Francisco 49ers. Walker responded by stepping up in a major way, racking up 38 carries for 178 yards and four touchdowns throughout the playoffs, while also proving valuable as a receiver with 78 receiving yards.
Walker’s performance on Sunday wasn’t just about the yards gained; it was about his consistency and ability to wear down the Patriots’ defense. He became the first player to surpass 100 yards from scrimmage in every playoff game for a Super Bowl champion since Davis achieved the same feat in consecutive seasons (1997-98) with the Denver Broncos.
The Super Bowl MVP award couldn’t have come at a better time for Walker, who is set to become a free agent this offseason. His impressive playoff run has significantly increased his market value, and the Seahawks are now facing a critical decision regarding his future.
Seahawks coach Mike MacDonald acknowledged the importance of retaining Walker, stating earlier in the week, “Of course, we want Ken back. He’s a phenomenal player. He’s a great person. He’s a great teammate. Those are the people we want in our building. Those are the people we want with the Seahawks.” MacDonald added, “I’m sure Ken feels the same way. Again, those are things that we’re going to have to worry about, not right now. Those are decisions we’ll make in the future. But Ken knows how we feel about him. And I think we know how Ken feels about us.”
Walker himself expressed his desire to remain in Seattle, telling reporters, “If it was my choice, I’d definitely stay.” He elaborated, “I’ve been here four years, so you know I’ve gotten to know a lot of stuff about Seattle, and you know a lot of the city, and I feel like they feel good about me as well.”
The Seahawks have a significant amount of cap space available, which positions them well to make a competitive offer to Walker. The injury to Charbonnet further strengthens the case for retaining their star running back. The team clearly recognizes Walker’s value, and the player seems equally committed to remaining in Seattle.
Walker’s journey to Super Bowl MVP is a testament to his resilience and dedication. He entered the league with high expectations, and while he has faced challenges, he has consistently demonstrated his ability to perform under pressure. His performance in Super Bowl LX not only secured a championship for the Seahawks but also solidified his place among the league’s elite running backs.
The victory marks a significant achievement for the Seahawks organization, and Walker’s individual success adds another layer of excitement to an already memorable season. As the team celebrates its championship, the focus will inevitably turn to the future, and the question of whether Walker will remain a Seahawk will be a central storyline throughout the offseason.
The Super Bowl LX MVP award is more than just a personal accolade for Walker; it’s a validation of his hard work, talent, and unwavering commitment to the game. It’s a moment he will cherish for a lifetime, and it’s a moment that will undoubtedly inspire future generations of running backs.
