A looming Washington tax could diminish Seattle's appeal, potentially hindering the Seahawks' pursuit of elite free agents and impacting player contract decisions.
The Seattle Seahawks could soon face an unexpected challenge off the field if a proposed tax change in Washington becomes law. According to general manager John Schneider, a potential “millionaire tax” in the state could impact the team’s ability to attract and retain top talent in the future.
Washington has long been one of the few states in the country without a traditional state income tax. That distinction has quietly given the Seahawks—and other professional teams in the state—a financial advantage when negotiating contracts with players.
Without state income tax cutting into their earnings, players signing in Seattle often take home more money compared with similar contracts in states with higher tax rates.
However, a proposed measure in the state legislature could change that dynamic.
The proposal would place a roughly 9.9 percent tax on personal income above $1 million, a threshold that would apply to many professional athletes and high-earning team employees. If enacted, the tax would not take effect immediately, but it could begin impacting residents later in the decade.
Per multiple reports, this will become law, and will take effect in 2028.
Seahawks GM John Schneider recently addressed the issue while discussing how taxes can factor into contract negotiations across the National Football League.
From a front-office perspective, he believes the change could influence decisions by players and agents when comparing offers from different teams.
Schneider acknowledged that the proposed tax would likely “sting” and could come into play when the Seahawks pursue players on the open market.
Even a small difference in take-home pay might sway a decision when a player is choosing between comparable opportunities around the league.
Still, the potential impact remains uncertain. Many successful NFL franchises operate in states that already have income taxes, and players weigh numerous factors beyond finances when selecting a team.
Coaching staff, roster competitiveness, city lifestyle, and championship potential all contribute to the final decision.
For the Seahawks, the situation is simply another variable to monitor as the organization plans for the future.
While the franchise has historically benefited from Washington’s tax structure, the team’s leadership will continue focusing on building a competitive roster regardless of what changes may come at the state level.
Ultimately, whether the proposal becomes law or not, the Seahawks’ front office will adapt, just as teams across the NFL constantly adjust to new financial and competitive realities.