Seattle GM Says Washington’s New Millionaire Tax Will Hurt Player Recruitment

Seattle Seahawks General Manager John Schneider warns that Washington state's newly approved 9.9% tax on earnings over $1 million will hurt the team's ability to recruit players. The measure, which takes effect in 2029, will impact most NFL players since the league minimum salary exceeds the tax threshold.

The Seattle Seahawks’ success in building championship rosters through strategic drafting and free agency signings led them to a Super Bowl LX victory this past February. But a newly approved tax policy in Washington state may create significant challenges for future player acquisitions.

Washington state senators voted 27-21 on Wednesday to approve legislation implementing a 9.9% tax on annual income above $1 million. Governor Bob Ferguson, who has publicly backed the proposal, is expected to sign the measure into law. The tax obligation will begin in 2029.

While the legislation is projected to impact only half a percent of Washington residents, professional athletes represent a substantial portion of those affected earners.

Seahawks General Manager John Schneider expressed concerns about the tax’s impact during a KIRO-AM radio interview. “It’s gonna sting. There’s no question about it,” Schneider stated. “All the pro teams here in town, (not having a state income tax has) always been a huge attraction, especially competing with the California teams. It’s been a big deal for us. So, yeah, it’s going to sting from a recruiting standpoint.”

The timing creates particular challenges since the NFL’s 2026 minimum salary for players with at least one year of experience is scheduled at $1.005 million, placing virtually every potential recruit above the tax threshold. During this offseason, Seattle has signed three outside free agents to single-year contracts while losing notable players including Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III.

With this legislation, Washington becomes the seventh jurisdiction to implement a version of high-earner taxation, joining California, Massachusetts, Minnesota, New Jersey, New York, and the District of Columbia.