Author: Robert Jackson

The Seattle Seahawks appear poised to let running back Kenneth Walker III hit unrestricted free agency, opting not to use the franchise tag, according to sources cited by The Athletic. The move comes after a breakout season in which Walker played a pivotal role in Seattle’s Super Bowl 60 championship.

Walker, 25, had the best season of his career in 2025, appearing in all 17 regular-season games for the first time. He excelled in the playoffs, rushing for 135 yards on 27 carries and adding 26 receiving yards over three games, including a standout performance in the 29-13 Super Bowl victory over the New England Patriots. His 417 total scrimmage yards and four touchdowns in the postseason earned him Super Bowl MVP honors and cemented his status as a key offensive weapon.

Seahawks Prioritize Roster Strategy and Cap Flexibility Over Retaining Star Running Back

Seattle general manager John Schneider indicated last week at the NFL Scouting Combine that a franchise tag was unlikely. Schneider, who has used the tag only twice since becoming GM in 2010, emphasized evaluating the “whole picture” of the roster, rather than focusing solely on Walker’s performance or the late-season injury to fellow back Zach Charbonnet. He acknowledged Walker’s value but highlighted roster-wide considerations in contract decisions.

Financially, tagging Walker would have carried a $14.5 million cost for 2026, while a transition tag would have been $11.7 million, allowing Seattle to match offers but limiting Walker’s freedom. By letting him hit the open market, the Seahawks open the door for competition, and Walker is projected to be the top running back available after the Jets placed the franchise tag on Breece Hall.

A second-round pick in 2022 and ranked No. 8 on The Athletic’s top 150 free agents, Walker enters free agency with strong playoff credentials and proven durability, making him one of the league’s most attractive running backs. Seattle’s decision reflects a strategy prioritizing financial flexibility and roster management over short-term retention of its star back.

The Pittsburgh Steelers’ new head coach, Mike McCarthy, is already making a strong impression on members of the 2026 NFL Draft class. McCarthy, a native of Pittsburgh, is preparing for his first draft at the helm of the franchise, and several top prospects praised their interactions with him during media sessions at the NFL Scouting Combine.

Quarterbacks were especially vocal about their admiration. Alabama’s Ty Simpson described meeting McCarthy as a major learning experience, saying, “A guy like that who has had success in the league for a long time and is well respected, any time I get to sit in an interview and soak up all that knowledge, it’s anything I could ask for.” LSU’s Garrett Nussmeier, whose father previously coached under McCarthy in Dallas, called him “very passionate about winning.” Penn State’s Drew Allar also praised the coach, highlighting that McCarthy challenged him with the most detailed X’s and O’s discussion of any team interview. Allar added that McCarthy even grilled him about growing up in Cleveland, making the meeting both intense and engaging.

Wide receivers shared similar enthusiasm. Alabama’s Germie Bernard said McCarthy spent significant time discussing his family background, his physical style of play, and his ability to gain yards after the catch. Indiana’s Elijah Surratt described meeting the Super Bowl–winning coach as “surreal,” underscoring McCarthy’s influence on potential draft choices.

McCarthy’s Leadership and Reputation Impress Prospects Across Multiple Key Positions

Other prospects echoed the sentiment across positions. Cincinnati linebacker Jake Golday, a longtime Packers fan, expressed excitement at meeting McCarthy. Iowa State nose tackle Dominque Orange was impressed upon learning McCarthy now leads the Steelers, recalling his time coaching in Dallas and Green Bay.

The early feedback from Indianapolis suggests that McCarthy is leaving a positive and lasting impression on top prospects. With Pittsburgh focusing on key positions such as wide receiver and maintaining a competitive roster, McCarthy’s reputation and personal connections appear to be helping the Steelers position themselves favorably for the 2026 NFL Draft. His combination of experience, football knowledge, and approachable personality is resonating across quarterbacks, skill players, and defenders alike.

The Scouting Combine meetings indicate that McCarthy’s first draft in Pittsburgh could benefit from strong relationships and trust already being established with elite prospects, potentially shaping the Steelers’ roster for years to come.

The Houston Texans have lost a potential free-agent target as the Dallas Cowboys and running back Javonte Williams agreed to a three-year extension worth $24 million, with $16 million guaranteed and a $6 million signing bonus, according to ESPN’s Adam Schefter. Williams, who signed a one-year, $3 million deal with Dallas this offseason, had a breakout season, setting career highs with 1,201 rushing yards, 252 carries, and 11 touchdowns while remaining healthy, improving on injury setbacks from 2022 and 2023.4

Texans Must Explore Free-Agent Running Backs to Strengthen 2026 Offense

Houston faces a critical need at running back entering the 2026 season. Pro Bowl running back Joe Mixon missed all of last season with a lower-body injury, and the only returning player under contract from last year’s roster is leading rusher Woody Marks, who is better suited as a secondary option rather than the primary back.

With Williams off the market, the Texans will need to pursue other free-agent running backs. The top available options include Seattle Seahawks’ Kenneth Walker, New York Jets’ Breece Hall, Jacksonville Jaguars’ Travis Etienne Jr., Carolina Panthers’ Rico Dowdle, and Atlanta Falcons’ Ty Allgeier. Any of these players could help address Houston’s rushing challenges as the team looks to strengthen its offense for the upcoming season.

Sidney Crosby took an important step toward a possible return to Team Canada’s lineup by practicing Saturday ahead of the Olympic gold medal game against Team USA at Santagiulia Arena. The Canadian captain missed Friday’s 3-2 semifinal victory over Finland due to a lower-body injury sustained during the quarterfinals against Czechia. Although his participation in Sunday’s final remains uncertain, his presence at practice offered hope to teammates and fans alike.

Coach Jon Cooper said a final decision on Crosby’s availability would come after further evaluation and team discussions. Cooper emphasized that Crosby would only play if he is fully healthy and capable of contributing effectively. With so much at stake, the coaching staff is unwilling to risk placing either Crosby or the team in jeopardy. Cooper made it clear that Crosby would not dress simply for inspiration; he must be physically ready to perform at a high level.

Teammates Praise Crosby’s Leadership and Hope for His Return Sunday

Teammates expressed optimism after watching Crosby skate. Forward Nick Suzuki said Crosby looked strong during practice and highlighted the emotional and leadership boost his return would provide. Crosby’s influence extends beyond his on-ice performance. Even while sidelined, he has remained actively engaged, speaking with teammates and offering insights during games. Center Connor McDavid praised Crosby’s positive attitude and continued leadership, noting that he still contributes meaningfully despite not playing.

McDavid assumed captain duties in Crosby’s absence during the semifinal and would likely do so again if necessary, as international rules require a designated captain in every game. McDavid acknowledged the team’s desire to give Crosby every opportunity to return but recognized that the final call depends on his health.

Josh Morrissey Ruled Out as Canada Focuses on Health and Leadership

Canada will also be without defenseman Josh Morrissey in the gold medal game. Morrissey has not played since sustaining an undisclosed injury in the tournament opener against Czechia. Though he had resumed skating in practice, Cooper confirmed he is not physically prepared to compete. The coach emphasized the team’s collective selflessness, explaining that players have prioritized the country’s success over personal ambitions. If they cannot perform at their best, they choose not to risk weakening the team.

Morrissey’s absence marks another disappointing setback, as he also missed a previous championship matchup against the United States due to illness. Cooper expressed sympathy for the defenseman, calling him an exceptional player and individual.

As Canada prepares for a high-stakes showdown with its longtime rival, the focus remains on health and readiness. Crosby’s potential return could provide a significant lift, both tactically and emotionally. Whether he takes the ice or supports from the bench, his leadership continues to shape the team’s pursuit of Olympic gold.