Seahawks RB Zach Charbonnet is in line for a significant role this season, according to ESPN’s Brady Henderson. RB Kenneth Walker has practiced only four days in August because of foot soreness, giving Charbonnet plenty of No. 1 reps in camp.
What They're Saying
Brady Henderson of ESPN: “Between the on-field evidence and off-the-field comments, all indications are that Zach Charbonnet is going to have a significant role in the Seattle Seahawks' backfield this season. Some hints have been subtle while others have been obvious, and they've been mounting.”
Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak (asked about the skills of an elite RB): “No. 1 is intelligence. No. 2 is longevity or just availability. Guys 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. If he ever has a question, you know you didn't coach it good enough because he is that on it. Really been impressed with him."
2025 Fantasy Football Impact
Henderson noted the coaching staff’s praise for Charbonnet but stopped short of suggesting he’ll pass Walker on the depth chart. That’s because Walker remains so impressive when on the field.
He led the NFL in missed tackles forced per touch last season and ranked third among RBs in PFF’s Elusive Rating. Walker, Derrick Henry, and James Conner are the only RBs to post an 85+ PFF rushing grade in each of the past two years. He’s an elite runner.
We still project Walker as Seattle’s top back, with a firm spot in our top-15 PPR RB rankings.
Charbonnet ranks as one of our top handcuffs at RB39 in PPR. He should have a role even with Walker healthy, but “significant” might not translate to weekly fantasy relevance.
We’ll continue monitoring Walker’s foot soreness and update if it looks likely to linger into the season.