11 Feb 2026 6:00 pm
The Seattle Seahawks captured their second Lombardi Trophy Sunday night at Levi's Stadium, defeating the New England Patriots in Super Bowl LX in California. Quarterback Sam Darnold was good enough in the game, completing 19 passes of his 38 attempts.According to Sportico reporter Kurt Badenhausen, the Golden State's notorious "jock tax" means Darnold will fork over more in taxes than he receives in his Super Bowl winner's bonus."California has the highest income tax of any state, and the Super Bowl means 8 'duty days' in CA. Taxes hit your annual comp," Badenhausen posted. "Super Bowl winner bonus from NFL: $178K/player. Sam Darnold's estimated CA taxes: $249K."Per this terrible math, Darnold receives $178,000 for winning the Super Bowl but owes California an estimated $249,000 in state income tax for his time in the state. It is a $71,000 net loss for helping the Seahawks to win the NFL final.