ESPN’s Brady Henderson reports RB Zach Charbonnet “is going to have a significant role in the Seattle Seahawks’ backfield this season.”
Charbonnet has impressed Seahawks coaches, including new offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, throughout the offseason and into training camp while Ken Walker has missed significant time with an ongoing foot issue. Walker has managed just four practices over the past month, according to Henderson. Charbonnet hasn’t missed any time, and rushed fore 45 yards on just five carries last week against the Chiefs. “While no one with the Seahawks has publicly acknowledged that the RB1 job is up for grabs, Walker’s ongoing availability issues and the way Charbonnet continues to impress the organization suggests that Seattle’s backfield could be more of a timeshare than a typical starter-backup arrangement,” Henderson said. Kubiak, meanwhile, said availability will weigh heavily in who carries the load in the Seattle backfield this season. Kubiak said he’s seeking backs “that are available for the whole game. The best backs that I’ve been around are super smart ... Our top two guys are doing some really good things, but Charbonnet, his mental approach to the game is extremely impressive. He does not flinch.” Charbonnet is an excellent fantasy pick for drafters who fade the running back position in the opening rounds, while Walker remains a risky option with some upside if he can manage to stay healthy in 2025.