A third-year standout for the Seattle Seahawks is drawing praise while pushing to earn a starting role during training camp.
The Seattle Seahawks might have a running back battle on their hands, and if Ken Walker III isn’t careful, Zach Charbonnet could start stealing some of his offensive snaps.
As a rookie in 2023, Charbonnet had 108 rushing attempts for 462 yards and one touchdown. He also caught 33 passes for 209 yards. His production increased in 2024 when he had to step in for Walker, who was dealing with injuries.
Last season, Charbonnet emerged as an option out of the backfield for the Seahawks (909 scrimmage yards, nine total touchdowns in 17 games), and while Walker is the starter, it might not stay that way for long.
“Zach, he's just a stud,” Seahawks head coach Mike Macdonald said (h/t Brady Henderson of ESPN). “He’s just everything you want in a person and a football player, that’s him. He just does it every day. Same person, great spirit, strong as an ox, does everything right. I mean, what do you want from a football player? Zach Charbonnet.”
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Charbonnet’s strong performance on the field will definitely earn him playing time, but the 24-year-old’s chance could also come from Walker’s ongoing struggles with staying healthy.
Last season, Walker missed six games due to oblique, calf, and ankle injuries, adding up to 10 missed games over the past three seasons. On top of that, the 24-year-old dealt with an ankle injury this spring and has now missed the past two days due to a foot issue.
“It’s just a little soreness with his foot right now,” Macdonald added. “But he’s fine. We're just taking care of him right now throughout camp.”
Seattle have a new quarterback in Sam Darnold, and he will likely have to rely on the running game early as he gets comfortable with the offense and his weapons. Whether it's Walker or Charbonnet, Darnold should have reliable help on the ground to open up the passing game.
Category: Football
