Paul Allen Estate Begins Process to Sell Seattle Seahawks Franchise

The estate of late Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen has officially begun the process to sell the Seattle Seahawks, bringing an end to nearly three decades of ownership that saw the franchise capture its first Super Bowl championship and establish itself as one of the NFL's most formidable franchises.

Allen, who passed away in 2018 from complications related to non-Hodgkin's lymphoma, purchased the Seahawks in 1997 for $194 million, saving the team from potential relocation. Under his ownership, the franchise transformed from a struggling organization into a perennial playoff contender, reaching two Super Bowls and winning Super Bowl XLVIII following the 2013 season with a dominant 43-8 victory over the Denver Broncos.

The sale process comes as NFL franchise valuations have reached unprecedented heights, with recent transactions setting new benchmarks for professional sports team purchases. Industry experts estimate the Seahawks could fetch anywhere from $4.5 billion to $6 billion, making it one of the most valuable sales in NFL history. The franchise's strong fan base, modern stadium facilities, and position in the lucrative Seattle market make it an attractive acquisition target for potential buyers.

Since Allen's passing, his sister Jody Allen has served as the team's chairperson and controlling owner, overseeing day-to-day operations while the estate determined the franchise's long-term future. Under her stewardship, the Seahawks have maintained their competitive edge, continuing to develop young talent while remaining relevant in the highly competitive NFC West division.

The timing of the sale announcement coincides with the NFL's offseason period, allowing potential buyers ample time to conduct due diligence before the 2026 season begins. The league's ownership approval process typically takes several months, requiring a three-quarters majority vote from the 32 team owners. Prospective buyers must also meet the NFL's strict financial requirements, including liquid assets and debt-to-equity ratios.

Seahawks fans, known as the "12th Man," have expressed mixed emotions about the impending ownership change. Many credit Allen's investment and vision for transforming the organization into a championship-caliber team while expressing hope that new ownership will maintain the same commitment to excellence. The sale represents not just a business transaction but the closing of a chapter in Seattle sports history, as Allen's influence extended far beyond football to include significant contributions to the region's cultural and technological landscape.