Seahawks RB Kenneth Walker III Wins Award, First Running Back MVP in 28 Years

Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III was named Most Valuable Player of Super Bowl LX on Sunday, Feb. 8, 2026, after rushing for 135 yards on 27 carries and adding 26 receiving yards in the Seahawks’ dominant 29-13 victory over the New England Patriots at Levi’s Stadium.

Walker, in his fourth NFL season, became the first running back to earn Super Bowl MVP honors since Terrell Davis of the Denver Broncos in Super Bowl XXXII following the 1997 season — a span of 28 years. His performance anchored Seattle’s offense in a game largely controlled by defense, helping the Seahawks secure their second Lombardi Trophy in franchise history.

The Seahawks’ “Dark Side” defense set the tone, sacking Patriots quarterback Drake Maye six times, forcing three turnovers and holding New England to 13 points despite a late rally. Kicker Jason Myers contributed a Super Bowl-record five field goals, but voters rewarded Walker’s consistent production on the ground and in the passing game.

Walker totaled 161 scrimmage yards, outgaining the entire Patriots offense in the first half. His runs included bursts of 30, 29 and 10 yards that sustained drives and kept pressure off quarterback Sam Darnold. The former Michigan State star, drafted 9th overall in 2022, overcame early career injury concerns to emerge as Seattle’s offensive centerpiece.

In postgame comments, Walker expressed gratitude to his teammates. “This don’t happen without them,” he said on the field, holding the MVP trophy. “Our defense carried us all year, and tonight they did it again. I’m just blessed to be part of this group.”
The award came amid debate over whether a defensive player or Myers deserved

recognition. Cornerback Devon Witherspoon and edge rusher Leonard Williams disrupted Maye throughout, while Myers’ kicks provided the margin in a low-scoring affair. Some analysts, including those from The New York Post, argued coach Mike Macdonald’s scheme deserved MVP consideration for outmaneuvering New England’s defense.

Still, Walker’s impact proved decisive. He became the first Seahawks player to win Super Bowl MVP since Malcolm Butler’s interception in Super Bowl XLIX — though that game ended in heartbreak for Seattle. This time, the Seahawks flipped the script against their old rivals, avenging the 2015 loss where a goal-line interception sealed defeat.

The game unfolded as a defensive struggle. Seattle led 9-0 at halftime on Myers’ field goals. The third quarter saw more of the same, with Myers extending the lead to 15-0. New England’s first points arrived in the fourth on a Maye touchdown pass to Mack Hollins, but Seattle responded with a fumble return touchdown by DeMarcus Lawrence and Darnold’s scoring strike to tight end A.J. Barner.

Maye finished under duress, completing passes at a low clip amid constant pressure. The Patriots managed under 200 total yards, underscoring Seattle’s defensive dominance.
Walker’s MVP selection highlighted the value of a strong ground game in championship games. His 27 carries controlled tempo, limited possessions for New England and wore down their front seven. The performance capped a postseason where Walker rushed for over 400 yards across three games.

For the Seahawks, the win validated their rebuild around young talent and a ferocious defense under Macdonald, who previously coordinated Baltimore’s unit. Seattle entered as NFC champions after a strong regular season, overcoming injuries to key players.
The Patriots, led by second-year quarterback Maye (the regular-season MVP runner-up), fell short in their bid for a seventh title. The loss ended a promising campaign but exposed vulnerabilities against elite defenses.

Halftime provided contrast with Bad Bunny’s Apple Music performance, featuring Lady Gaga and Ricky Martin in surprise cameos. The cultural celebration offered a lively interlude to the on-field grind.

Postgame ceremonies included the traditional trophy presentation, with owner Jody Allen accepting on behalf of the franchise. Walker posed with the MVP award amid confetti, joined by teammates in celebration.

The victory sparks discussions about Seattle’s potential dynasty. With young stars like Walker, Darnold and Witherspoon, the Seahawks position themselves as contenders for years ahead.

For Walker, the MVP caps a remarkable arc from injury doubts to championship glory. His father attended his first NFL game in person at the Super Bowl, adding personal significance.

As the NFL offseason begins, focus shifts to free agency, the draft and 2026 Hall of Fame class announcements. Super Bowl LX will endure as a testament to defense, grit and one running back’s breakout moment on the biggest stage.