Billionaires Mark Zuckerberg and Tim Cook Eye $9B-$11B Seahawks Purchase

The Seattle Seahawks are officially on the market, and a group of high-profile billionaires—including Meta CEO Mark Zuckerberg and former Apple CEO Tim Cook—are reportedly exploring potential bids to acquire the franchise.

According to Ben Horney of Front Office Sports, Zuckerberg and Cook are among the potential suitors evaluating the opportunity. Two additional unnamed individuals are also conducting preliminary due diligence on a possible offer.

The next owner will pay a record sum for controlling interest in an NFL team. The Seahawks are expected to sell for between $9 billion and $11 billion, a valuation that would shatter the league’s previous record. The Washington Commanders were acquired in 2023 for $6.05 billion.

Zuckerberg’s net worth is more than sufficient to purchase 100% of the Seahawks at the projected price. Cook, however, has a reported net worth of $2.9 billion, which would not cover even a 30% stake, limiting his potential role to that of a minority partner.

Timeline and League Pressure

The Seahawks officially entered the sales process on February 18, following sustained pressure from the NFL for current owner Jody Allen to comply with the late Paul Allen’s wishes to sell the team and distribute proceeds to his designated charities.

A $5 million fine for non-compliance with league ownership rules was initially imposed but later rescinded under the condition that the franchise would be sold promptly after the 2025 season.

Why the Seahawks Are a High-Value Asset

While the team’s Super Bowl championship status does not directly impact its financial valuation, it enhances the franchise’s prestige and appeal as a rare, appreciating asset in the sports world.