Seahawks on the Block: A Record-Breaking NFL Sale Looms
The Seattle Seahawks are officially for sale by the Paul G. Allen Estate, with Jeff Bezos, Steve Ballmer, Bill Gates and ownership groups emerging as potential buyers
The Seattle Seahawks, fresh off their triumphant win in Super Bowl LX, are officially on the market. The Paul G. Allen Estate announced the sale process on February 18, 2026, marking the end of an era that began when the late Microsoft co-founder purchased the team in 1997 for $194 million.
Now valued at around $6.59 billion by Sportico, experts predict the franchise could shatter records with a sale price between $7 billion and $10 billion, potentially climbing to $11 billion given the team's recent championship success and the NFL's soaring valuations.
The process, handled by Allen & Company and law firm Latham & Watkins, is expected to be deliberate, drawing from a pool of ultra-wealthy individuals capable of meeting the league's stringent ownership requirements, including a minimum 30% equity stake.
Here’s a look at some of the most frequently mentioned potential buyers, starting with those boasting strong Seattle connections:
Jeff Bezos: The Obvious Front-Runner?
Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, with a net worth of approximately $219.5 billion, tops nearly every speculative list. Born in Albuquerque but synonymous with Seattle through Amazon's headquarters, Bezos has long been rumored to covet NFL ownership. He was linked to the Washington Commanders’ sale in 2023 but ultimately passed. His East Coast lifestyle in Miami might temper enthusiasm, but his resources and local legacy make him a natural fit.
Steve Ballmer: A Sports Mogul with Seattle Roots
Former Microsoft CEO Steve Ballmer, worth about $141 billion, already owns the NBA's Los Angeles Clippers, which he acquired in 2014. His ties to the Pacific Northwest run deep, having worked alongside Paul Allen at Microsoft. Ballmer’s energetic style and proven track record in sports ownership could appeal to the NFL, and media personalities like Rich Eisen have suggested he could “buy the whole NFL” if he wanted. As a Seattle-area resident with a passion for local sports, Ballmer is seen as a community-oriented choice.
Bill Gates: Tech Titan and Seahawks Supporter
Microsoft co-founder Bill Gates, with a net worth of around $107 billion, has historical links to Allen and has voiced public support for the Seahawks. While Gates hasn’t actively pursued team ownership in the past, his philanthropy and low-key demeanor could position him as a stable, long-term steward. However, his focus on global issues through the Gates Foundation might divert his interest.
MacKenzie Scott: Philanthropist with Deep Pockets
Bezos’ ex-wife MacKenzie Scott, valued at $28.6 billion, has been floated as a potential buyer due to her Seattle residency and massive wealth from Amazon stock. Known for her rapid philanthropy—donating billions to causes—she could bring a fresh, community-focused perspective to ownership.
Ownership Groups: A Collaborative Path to Seahawks Ownership
While individual billionaires dominate the speculation, the escalating valuations of NFL franchises—often exceeding $5 billion—make ownership groups an increasingly viable and common alternative to a single primary owner.
Under NFL rules, a controlling owner must hold at least a 30% stake in the team, but ownership can involve groups of up to 25 individuals, provided the group structure meets league approval. This model has been successfully implemented in recent sales, such as the Denver Broncos’ acquisition by the Walton-Penner Family Ownership Group in 2022 for $4.65 billion, led by Walmart heir Rob Walton with partners including Mellody Hobson and Condoleezza Rice. Similarly, the Washington Commanders were purchased in 2023 by a group headed by Josh Harris, including Magic Johnson and David Blitzer, for a record $6.05 billion.
The 2024 rule change allowing private equity firms to invest up to 10% in teams further facilitates group ownership by enabling funds like Arctos Partners, Ares Management, or consortia such as Blackstone and Carlyle Group to provide capital without decision-making control.
For the Seahawks, valued potentially at $10-11 billion, a group could pool resources from Seattle's tech ecosystem—perhaps led by a figure like Ballmer or Gates, with minority stakes from executives at companies like Starbucks or Boeing, or even involving local investors to emphasize community ties. This approach not only spreads financial risk but also brings diverse expertise, potentially enhancing team management and fan engagement. Given the high price tag, some analysts suggest a group bid is more probable than a solo purchase..
Out-of-Towners: Larry Ellison, Tilman Fertitta, and More
Beyond locals, Oracle founder Larry Ellison ($150+ billion) was a name mentioned when the Broncos were for sale. Houston Rockets owner Tilman Fertitta and Canadian businessman Steve Apostolopolous, who bid on the Commanders, are also mentioned as possibilities. Social media buzz includes wildcards like Elon Musk, but those stem from satirical reports and fan speculation, with no credible interest confirmed.
As the bidding unfolds, the Seahawks' future owner will inherit a championship-caliber team in a passionate market. With no relocation risks and a price tag that could redefine sports valuations, this sale represents a major milestone for the NFL. Whoever wins the bid will need not just billions, but a vision to sustain Seattle's gridiron legacy.