The Seahawks Running Back Problem That Has Everyone Asking One Question
The Seahawks have a major hole to fill at running back, and GM John Schneider knows it. With Kenneth Walker III gone to Kansas City and Zach Charbonnet sidelined by a torn ACL, Seattle's backfield looks completely different heading into 2026. The question now: can they piece together a solution before training camp?
The Departures That Changed Everything
Let's be real, losing Walker stings. The Super Bowl MVP rushed for a team-high 1,027 yards last season before signing a three-year, $43.05 million deal with the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency. That's a legitimate power back leaving during his prime, and there's no way around that loss.
Then there's Charbonnet. The guy was having a solid season with 730 yards and 12 touchdowns, but the torn ACL he suffered is going to keep him off the field for most of 2026. Two weapons gone or severely limited? That's a problem.
What the Seahawks Have Right Now
So what's left in the cupboard? Emanuel Wilson just signed a one-year, $2.1 million deal with Seattle after backing up with the Green Bay Packers. He rushed for 998 yards over the past two seasons and brings what Schneider calls "heavy runner with really nice feet." George Holani, who stepped up big as Walker's postseason backup, is also on the roster. Then there's Kenny McIntosh, who had a solid 2024 before tearing his ACL in training camp last July.
The depth chart is rounded out by Velus Jones Jr., Cam Akers, and Jacardia Wright. It's not exactly inspiring.
Schneider's Not Sweating It (Yet)
When Schneider talked to Wyman and Bob on Thursday, he sounded calm about the situation. "That's a position that you can find guys," he said. He acknowledged Walker's departure was well deserved, praised Wilson's tape, and expressed confidence in what Charbonnet will do once healthy. "I get it. But like, we know where we're at right now," Schneider added, essentially telling fans to pump the brakes on panic.
The GM also went out of his way to praise Holani, calling him "one of those guys that just does everything really well." The undrafted free agent from Boise State caught three passes for 27 yards in the NFC Championship and contributed key plays in the Super Bowl, including a 7-yard run and 5-yard reception on consecutive snaps during a field-goal drive.
The draft is coming in a month. The season is still six and a half months away. Schneider's right that this position can be addressed. But right now, it's the biggest question mark on the Seattle roster.
🐦 What fans are saying on X
See the latest reactions and highlights from Seattle fans about Seattle Seahawks.
View X conversation →🔮 Trade Seattle Sports on Kalshi
Did you know you can trade on Seattle sports outcomes on Kalshi, the only federally regulated prediction market in the US? Kalshi is available in Washington state. Bet on Seahawks games, Mariners season outcomes, Kraken playoff runs, and more. No sportsbook account needed.
💰 Limited offer: Get a FREE $10 when you sign up!
👉 Sign up at Kalshi.com and use promo code SEATTLEONTAP to claim your free $10.
This article was created with AI assistance and reviewed by Seattle On Tap editorial staff. Always verify information with official team sources.