Who Owns Seattle Seahawks: Ownership Insights

Seattle’s football story is inseparable from the roar of Lumen Field, the devotion of the “12s,” and a history shaped by both triumphs and near departures. The Seahawks didn’t just arrive in the NFL; they fought for relevance, endured ownership changes, and grew into one of the league’s most respected franchises. Ownership has always been at the center of that journey. From the Nordstrom family’s early vision to Paul Allen’s decisive rescue in the 1990s, and now Jody Allen’s stewardship, the question of who owns Seattle Seahawks is as much about legacy as it is about business.

Seattle Seahawks Profile

The Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team in the National Football League (NFL). As of 2025, they compete in the NFC West division. Their home stadium is Lumen Field in Seattle’s SoDo neighborhood.

The Seahawks are known for a strong fan base (often called the “12s”), competitive seasons, and periods of both high success and rebuilding. Leadership has recently shifted, with a new head coach and continued investment in both offense and defense.

The franchise marks its 50th season since entering the league in 1976.

Founders

The Seahawks were established through a local consortium of business leaders, civic visionaries, and investors who wanted to bring NFL football to Seattle. Key figures include:

• Lloyd W. Nordstrom — part of the Nordstrom department store family. He was instrumental in securing the NFL expansion franchise for Seattle.
• Herman Sarkowsky — a businessman and real estate developer, also co-founder of the original ownership group. He later sold his stake in 1988.
• David E. “Ned” Skinner II — a Seattle shipping heir and philanthropist, among the earliest owners.

This group, known as Seattle Professional Football, Inc., came together in the mid-1970s. They won the bid for the expansion franchise in 1974, and the team began playing in 1976.

Major Milestones

• 1974 – The NFL awards an expansion franchise to Seattle; Seattle Professional Football, Inc. becomes the founding ownership group.
• 1976 – Seahawks’ first season in the NFL; first regular season game; building early fan base.
• 1983-1984 – First playoff appearances under coach Chuck Knox, marking early competitive progress.
• 1988 – Herman Sarkowsky sells his stake; Nordstrom family ownership changes; Ken Behring becomes majority owner.
• 1997 – Paul Allen purchases the Seahawks for around $200 million; he secures agreements that keep the team in Seattle.
• 2002 – Opening of the then-Seahawks Stadium (later known as Qwest Field, then CenturyLink Field, now Lumen Field); this provides a modern facility and more fan amenities.
• 2005 – Seahawks win first NFC Championship; first Super Bowl appearance in Super Bowl XL (though they lost).
• 2013 – Dominant regular season; Seahawks win their first Super Bowl (Super Bowl XLVIII), defeating Denver.
• 2014 – Return to Super Bowl (XLIX); this sets a high competitive bar and increases national profile.
• 2022 – On July 20, the 20th anniversary of Lumen Field’s opening is celebrated. “Fanovation” upgrades are announced to modernize the stadium and improve the fan experience.
• 2023 – Players’ individual records: Geno Smith breaks franchise marks for completions, attempts, and passing yards in a single season; DK Metcalf puts up strong receiving numbers, continues consistent high performance.
• 2025 – Seahawks mark the 50th season since entering the NFL (first season was 1976). The franchise leverages the milestone with special events and branding to celebrate its legacy.

Who Owns Seattle Seahawks?

Since the death of Paul G. Allen in 2018, ownership of the Seahawks has been handled through his estate. The Paul G. Allen Trust now holds legal ownership. Jody Allen, Paul’s sister, is the sole trustee of that trust. She effectively governs the team’s major decisions.

Under the terms of Paul Allen’s will, the sports franchises he owned (including the Seahawks) are expected eventually to be sold, with the proceeds directed largely toward philanthropic efforts. However, there is no rigid timeline for that sale.

Paul G. Allen Trust – 100% ownership

The Paul G. Allen Trust holds 100% of the ownership stake in the Seattle Seahawks. This was established after Paul Allen’s death in 2018. The trust was created to manage his estate, including his sports teams and other major assets.

The trust is not a typical shareholder in the sense of a private equity firm or investor group; rather, it is a legal entity that manages and protects assets in line with the wishes of Paul Allen’s will. One of those wishes is that his fortune, including the value of the Seahawks, will eventually be used to fund philanthropic and scientific projects through the Paul G. Allen Foundation and other charitable endeavors.

While the trust owns the team, it does not have a board of shareholders making collective decisions. Instead, all authority lies with the trustee.

Jody Allen – Controlling Trustee

Jody Allen, Paul Allen’s sister, serves as the sole trustee of the Paul G. Allen Trust, which means she effectively has 100% control of the Seattle Seahawks. Though she doesn’t personally hold ownership shares in her name, her position as trustee gives her full decision-making power over the franchise.

This includes hiring and firing executives, making financial commitments, approving stadium upgrades, and representing the team in NFL ownership meetings. Since 2018, Jody has overseen major changes, including the transition from long-time head coach Pete Carroll to Mike Macdonald in 2024.

Jody Allen’s control is expected to continue until the trust decides to sell the Seahawks, but as of 2025, there is no public timeline for such a sale.

Seattle Seahawks Ownership History

The Seahawks’ ownership journey reflects the city’s determination to keep professional football in Seattle. From a founding group of local business leaders to the intervention of one of the world’s most influential tech entrepreneurs, the franchise’s history of ownership is filled with turning points that shaped its identity and stability.

Founding by the Nordstrom Family (1974–1988)

The Seahawks were founded in 1974 when the NFL awarded an expansion franchise to Seattle Professional Football, Inc., a group led by Lloyd W. Nordstrom of the Nordstrom department store family. Nordstrom played a central role in establishing the team and guiding its early years.

Under this ownership, the Seahawks entered the NFL in 1976 and built their foundation as a franchise. The Nordstroms remained committed until they sold their majority stake in 1988.

Ken Behring and Ken Hofmann Era (1988–1997)

In 1988, California developers Ken Behring and Ken Hofmann purchased the team from the Nordstrom family. Their tenure was controversial, particularly when Behring attempted to relocate the team to Los Angeles in the mid-1990s.

The move created legal battles and backlash from fans and city officials. The uncertainty during this period threatened the Seahawks’ future in Seattle, and public confidence in ownership was shaken.

Paul Allen Saves the Franchise (1997–2018)

In 1997, Microsoft co-founder Paul Allen purchased the Seahawks for about $200 million. His intervention was crucial, as he not only stabilized the franchise but also ensured it remained in Seattle. Allen invested in a new stadium deal, which became Seahawks Stadium (later renamed Lumen Field).

His leadership transformed the team, helping it rise to consistent competitiveness and ultimately to a Super Bowl championship. Allen remained the owner until his passing in October 2018, leaving a legacy as the man who preserved football in the city.

Paul G. Allen Trust and Jody Allen’s Stewardship (2018–Present)

After Paul Allen’s death, ownership passed to the Paul G. Allen Trust. His sister, Jody Allen, became trustee, giving her full authority over the Seahawks. She represents the franchise in all NFL matters and has overseen significant decisions, including leadership changes in coaching and management.

While the trust has signaled that the team could eventually be sold as part of Paul Allen’s long-term philanthropic plan, no active sale process has been initiated as of 2025.

The Seahawks remain under Jody Allen’s control, continuing Allen’s legacy of keeping the team firmly tied to Seattle.

Jody Allen Net Worth

Jody Allen’s net worth is estimated at $20.3 billion as of September 2025. This places her among the wealthiest sports franchise owners in the world and within the top five richest NFL owners. While her fortune was largely inherited from her brother, Paul Allen, Jody has played a critical role in preserving, growing, and managing these assets through strategic investments, careful oversight of sports teams, and active involvement in real estate and philanthropy.

Inheritance from Paul Allen

Paul Allen, co-founder of Microsoft and one of the wealthiest individuals in history, passed away in 2018, leaving behind an estate valued at more than $26 billion at the time. Jody Allen, as executor and trustee of the Paul G. Allen Trust, inherited direct control of his sports franchises and significant influence over his art, real estate, and investment portfolio. This inheritance forms the foundation of her $20.3 billion fortune today.

As executor, Jody Allen does not just hold wealth passively. She has responsibility for making key decisions about asset retention, liquidation, and philanthropic contributions. Her stewardship has included maintaining the Seahawks under stable leadership, preparing the Portland Trail Blazers for an eventual sale, and managing high-value art auctions.

Sports Franchise Ownership

Sports franchises are the most visible and valuable part of Jody Allen’s portfolio. These assets represent both financial and cultural influence:

• Seattle Seahawks: The Seahawks are valued at $6.7 billion in September 2025, making them one of the most valuable franchises in the NFL. Since taking over after Paul Allen’s death, Jody Allen has kept the team stable, supporting long-term management strategies and investing in player development and stadium improvements.
• Portland Trail Blazers: Valued at around $3.2 billion, the Blazers are another major asset in her portfolio. Although discussions about selling the team have circulated for years, Jody Allen continues to oversee its operations through the Paul G. Allen Trust.

Combined, these two sports franchises account for nearly $10 billion of her overall net worth, reflecting how sports ownership continues to be one of the most reliable appreciating assets in her estate.

Real Estate Holdings

Jody Allen also controls extensive real estate investments through Vulcan Real Estate, a company founded by Paul Allen. The portfolio includes major commercial buildings, luxury residential properties, and mixed-use projects, particularly concentrated in Seattle and the Pacific Northwest.

These assets generate consistent rental income and long-term capital appreciation. Notable properties include technology-focused office spaces in Seattle’s South Lake Union district, waterfront developments, and cultural projects. Collectively, Vulcan’s real estate division is estimated to be worth billions of dollars, further strengthening the Allen family fortune.

Art and Collectibles

The Paul G. Allen estate included one of the most valuable private art collections in the world. Pieces from artists such as Botticelli, Cézanne, Monet, and Klimt were auctioned in 2022 and 2023, fetching record-breaking sums exceeding $1.6 billion in total sales.

Jody Allen has overseen these auctions and continues to hold significant pieces of fine art, collectibles, and rare items. While some of these are managed through charitable trusts, others remain private assets, contributing both to her cultural influence and net worth.

Technology and Investment Assets

Beyond real estate and sports, Jody Allen oversees a diversified investment portfolio originally built by Paul Allen. Through Vulcan Capital, she manages stakes in private equity, venture capital, and technology startups. These holdings include investments in biotechnology, artificial intelligence, space ventures, and renewable energy companies.

These investments ensure that her wealth is future-oriented and not solely tied to traditional assets like sports and real estate. They also carry potential for rapid appreciation if certain startups or funds achieve large-scale growth or IPOs.

Philanthropy and Foundations

Jody Allen has also inherited responsibility for the Paul G. Allen Family Foundation, which holds over $1.2 billion in assets as of 2025. While these funds are earmarked for charitable use and not part of her liquid personal wealth, her role as trustee underscores the scale of influence she has in global philanthropy.

The foundation focuses on initiatives in education, arts, environmental sustainability, marine conservation, and scientific research. Jody Allen herself has been particularly active in marine conservation, extending the family’s legacy in philanthropy.

Standing Among NFL Owners

With her $20.3 billion fortune, Jody Allen ranks among the five richest owners in the NFL, competing with billionaires such as:

• Rob Walton (Denver Broncos, ~ $77 billion)
• David Tepper (Carolina Panthers, ~ $20.6 billion)
• Stan Kroenke (Los Angeles Rams, ~ $16 billion)
  

Her fortune is unique in that it is more diverse, with strong representation across sports, real estate, technology, and art.

Liquidity vs. Asset Wealth

It is important to distinguish between asset-based net worth and liquid wealth. While Jody Allen’s fortune totals $20.3 billion, the majority of it is tied to illiquid assets such as team ownership, real estate, and art collections. Selling these quickly would be difficult without impacting valuations.

Her actual liquid wealth, made up of cash and easily tradable investments, is much smaller. However, the stability and growth potential of her asset base make her one of the most financially secure and strategically positioned owners in global sports.

Seattle Seahawks Net Worth

The Seattle Seahawks are valued at $6.7 billion as of September 2025, making them one of the top franchises in the NFL. This valuation includes the team’s revenue, profitability, market strength, and brand value. The figure represents an increase from their 2024 valuation, reflecting both the rising popularity of the NFL and Seattle’s strong market performance.

The Seahawks are not only a sports franchise but also a major entertainment and business asset for the Pacific Northwest. Their valuation places them among the most financially powerful teams in football, ahead of several larger-market franchises.

Below is an overview of the 10-year historical net worth (franchise valuation) of the Seattle Seahawks from 2016-25:

Revenue Streams

The Seahawks generate income from several diversified sources:

• Game-day revenues: Ticket sales, concessions, and parking generate hundreds of millions annually. With Lumen Field consistently selling out, game-day revenue remains one of the strongest pillars of their business model. Concerts and other events at the stadium add millions more each year.
• Media and broadcasting deals: The NFL’s national broadcasting contracts account for the largest portion of revenue. In addition, streaming platforms like Amazon Prime (with Thursday Night Football) have increased payout levels, benefiting all teams equally, including Seattle.
• Sponsorships and partnerships: The Seahawks have lucrative deals with companies in technology, airlines, financial services, and consumer brands. Naming rights and sponsorships at Lumen Field add to their overall financial strength.
• Merchandising: With a strong fan base in the Pacific Northwest and beyond, the Seahawks generate impressive sales from jerseys, apparel, and collectibles. Online sales have expanded their reach worldwide.
• Stadium events: Lumen Field is a multi-purpose venue, hosting soccer matches, concerts, and conventions. These non-NFL events provide consistent revenue streams outside the football season.

Operating Income and Profitability

In 2025, the Seahawks reported an operating income of about $104 million. This reflects profits after expenses such as player salaries, stadium operations, and administrative costs.

• Revenue: Total annual revenue for 2025 stands at $624 million.
• Profit margins: Profitability remains healthy, largely thanks to the NFL’s revenue-sharing model and steadily growing broadcasting contracts.
• Financial stability: The Seahawks consistently rank among the league’s most financially stable franchises, balancing revenue with disciplined cost management.

Growth Trends

The Seahawks’ value has been climbing steadily, with several key drivers behind their growth:

• Rising NFL media rights: The NFL’s massive contracts with networks and streaming platforms continue to push valuations upward.
• Strong fan engagement: The “12th Man” fan base is one of the most passionate in the NFL, helping maintain high attendance, merchandise sales, and social media engagement.
• Team performance cycles: The Seahawks have enjoyed periods of strong competitiveness, including their Super Bowl XLVIII victory. Successful seasons elevate brand value, merchandise sales, and sponsorship opportunities.
• Stadium investments: Renovations and upgrades at Lumen Field have improved fan experiences and created opportunities for premium seating, luxury boxes, and sponsorship activations.
• Market advantage: Seattle, as a fast-growing tech and cultural hub, provides unique access to high-spending sponsors and affluent fan demographics.

Comparison to Other NFL Teams

At $6.7 billion, the Seahawks’ valuation places them:

• Above the NFL average, which sits closer to $5.1 billion in 2025.
• Behind only the most valuable franchises like the Dallas Cowboys (valued at over $10 billion) and the New England Patriots (over $9.5 billion).
• Competitive with teams in larger metropolitan areas, proving that Seattle’s fan loyalty and market strategy compensate for its smaller media market compared to cities like New York or Los Angeles.

Factors That Could Impact Valuation

Several elements can influence whether the Seahawks’ valuation rises or falls in the coming years:

• Stadium agreements: Long-term leases and potential renovation costs at Lumen Field could affect financial performance. Major upgrades could boost value but would require significant investment.
• On-field success: Winning seasons, playoff appearances, and star players tend to boost fan engagement and merchandise sales, raising the brand’s value.
• NFL media contracts: Future broadcasting negotiations, especially involving global streaming platforms, could significantly increase overall revenues.
• Economic climate: Inflation, consumer spending, and broader economic conditions affect ticket prices, sponsorship budgets, and discretionary fan spending.
• Ownership decisions: As Jody Allen oversees the Paul Allen Trust, any decision to sell the Seahawks could reset valuations based on market bidding, potentially pushing the team’s value even higher.

Seattle Seahawks Leadership

The Seahawks’ leadership combines ownership authority, executive management, and football operations. At the top, Jody Allen sets strategic direction as trustee of the Paul G. Allen Trust.

Business operations are led by President Chuck Arnold, while football matters are handled by General Manager John Schneider and Head Coach Mike Macdonald.

This structure balances financial oversight with competitive performance, ensuring the Seahawks remain strong on the field and as a business entity.

Jody Allen – Chair of the Seahawks

Jody Allen assumed control after Paul Allen’s passing in 2018. Her role extends beyond simply holding the franchise; she safeguards the long-term stability and financial strength of the Seahawks.

Allen is responsible for approving major financial decisions, such as stadium investments, large player contracts, and executive appointments.

She is also the public face of ownership at league meetings, where she represents the Seahawks in negotiations over collective bargaining agreements, broadcasting contracts, and other NFL-wide matters. Her stewardship has been marked by a commitment to keeping the Seahawks anchored in Seattle while upholding the values her brother instilled in the organization.

Chuck Arnold – President of the Seattle Seahawks

As President, Chuck Arnold directs the business side of the franchise. His responsibilities include sponsorships, ticketing, fan experience, and media partnerships. He has strengthened relationships with global and local brands, expanding revenue streams outside of football.

Arnold also plays a critical role in stadium operations at Lumen Field. He has overseen technology upgrades, sustainability projects, and new hospitality spaces that have improved both fan engagement and corporate partnerships. Under his leadership, the Seahawks’ annual revenues have consistently grown, contributing to the team’s $6.7 billion valuation in 2025.

John Schneider – Executive Vice President & General Manager

John Schneider is the architect of the Seahawks’ roster. His role extends beyond signing players—he leads the scouting department, manages salary cap strategy, and works closely with agents on player negotiations. Schneider is also tasked with balancing short-term competitiveness with long-term sustainability, making draft picks and trades that keep the team competitive across seasons.

Since 2010, Schneider has been instrumental in transforming the Seahawks into a consistent playoff contender. He is highly regarded across the NFL for his ability to uncover late-round talent and manage complex contract structures while keeping the Seahawks financially competitive under the salary cap.

Mike Macdonald – Head Coach

Appointed in 2024, Mike Macdonald brings a new era of leadership to the Seahawks. At just 36, he represents a generational shift after the long tenure of Pete Carroll. Macdonald is known for his innovative defensive schemes and ability to develop young talent.

As head coach, he oversees the daily operations of the football team, including practices, game strategy, and staff management. His fresh approach is designed to maximize player potential and adapt to the league’s evolving play styles. In 2025, his leadership is being closely watched as the Seahawks build around a younger roster.

Leadership Synergy – GM and Head Coach

The partnership between John Schneider and Mike Macdonald is central to the Seahawks’ football success. Schneider controls personnel moves, but Macdonald’s evaluations shape draft priorities and free-agent signings. This collaborative model ensures that the roster fits the coach’s system, reducing the disconnects that sometimes plague other franchises.

In 2025, this synergy is particularly critical as the team transitions from the Carroll era, requiring alignment on player development, culture-building, and long-term competitive strategies.

Business Oversight and Vulcan Sports & Entertainment

Beyond the executive offices, the Seahawks are managed under Vulcan Sports & Entertainment, a branch of the Allen estate. Vulcan ensures that the team’s financial health, marketing strategies, and community projects align with the broader mission of the Paul G. Allen Trust. This adds a layer of professional corporate oversight that complements the executive leadership within the franchise.

Community and Social Leadership

The Seahawks’ leadership is deeply involved in social responsibility and community engagement. Programs focus on education, youth sports, environmental initiatives, and equity in the Pacific Northwest. Leadership prioritizes building a team culture that extends beyond wins and losses, reinforcing the Seahawks’ reputation as a franchise committed to social good.

Final Thoughts

The ownership of the Seattle Seahawks tells a story that stretches beyond balance sheets and stadium deals. It is a tale of saving a franchise from relocation, of keeping a community’s passion alive, and of shaping the team’s identity through changing eras. Under Jody Allen and the Paul G. Allen Trust, the Seahawks remain firmly tied to Seattle, honoring the past while preparing for the future. For fans, ownership is not just about who signs the checks — it’s about who carries the responsibility of safeguarding a symbol of pride for the Pacific Northwest.

FAQs

Who are the owners of the Seattle Seahawks?

The Seattle Seahawks are owned through the Paul G. Allen Trust, with Jody Allen serving as trustee and chair. She currently holds authority over the franchise on behalf of the trust and represents the team at NFL ownership meetings.

Who is the owner of the Seattle Seahawks?

While the Seahawks are legally owned by the Paul G. Allen Trust, Jody Allen functions as the acting owner. She has managed the franchise since her brother Paul Allen passed away in 2018.

What is the name of the Seattle Seahawks’ first owner?

The Seahawks’ first owner was Lloyd W. Nordstrom, a member of the Nordstrom department store family. He secured the expansion franchise in 1974 but sadly passed away in January 1976 before the team played its first regular-season game. His family retained ownership until selling in the late 1980s.

How much did Paul Allen buy the Seattle Seahawks for?

Paul Allen purchased the Seahawks in 1997 for $200 million, rescuing the team from a potential relocation to Los Angeles. His ownership helped stabilize the franchise and keep it in Seattle.

Will the Seahawks be sold?

Yes, it is widely expected that the Seahawks will eventually be sold. As trustee of the Paul G. Allen Trust, Jody Allen has stated that the team will be sold at some point in the future to fulfill the terms of Paul Allen’s estate. However, no firm timeline has been set, and in 2025, the team remains under her stewardship.

What is the net worth of the Seahawks’ owner?

Jody Allen’s personal net worth is estimated at around $20 billion in 2025, largely tied to the Paul G. Allen Trust’s assets, which include real estate, investments, and cultural institutions. While she oversees these assets, they are not entirely her personal wealth, as she is a trustee rather than the sole beneficiary.

Who got Paul Allen’s money?

Paul Allen’s fortune—valued at more than $20 billion at the time of his death—was transferred into the Paul G. Allen Trust. Jody Allen was appointed as trustee, meaning she manages the assets, but the money was not left to her outright. The trust funds charitable, cultural, scientific, and environmental causes, alongside managing his business and sports holdings.

Why does Jody Allen have to sell the Seahawks?

The terms of the Paul G. Allen Trust require the eventual liquidation of assets, including the Seahawks and the NBA’s Portland Trail Blazers. The proceeds are intended to support Paul Allen’s philanthropic initiatives. Jody Allen’s role is to manage and eventually sell the assets at the right time to maximize their value.

How much of Microsoft did Paul Allen own?

Paul Allen co-founded Microsoft with Bill Gates in 1975. At its peak, his stake was about 28% of Microsoft. However, by the time of his death in 2018, he had sold or donated most of his shares, and his direct ownership was less than 2% of Microsoft. Despite the reduced stake, his early holdings and investment successes made him one of the world’s wealthiest individuals.