Seattle Seahawks Name Kenneth Walker III as Clear RB1 Over Zach Charbonnet in 2025

Seattle Seahawks fans can forget about any RB1 battle

The Seattle Seahawks have effectively ended the running back debate this NFL season, choosing Kenneth Walker III as their clear lead runner over Zach Charbonnet. Despite Charbonnet’s early promise and a timeshare in the backfield, Walker’s superior production and efficiency have cemented his status as the team’s primary ball carrier moving forward.

• Kenneth Walker III is clearly outperforming Zach Charbonnet, averaging 4.7 yards per carry versus Charbonnet’s 2.6.
• Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak acknowledges Walker has earned more carries but insists all three backs, including George Holani, will remain vital.
• Seattle's inconsistent run-blocking has contributed to Walker’s uneven performances, though pass protection has improved significantly.
• The Seahawks offense, led by quarterback Sam Darnold and wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba, requires Walker’s continued success to compete for a playoff spot.
• With a strong start to the 2025 season and a 4-2 record, the Seahawks face a crucial test against the Houston Texans, where Walker’s role could grow further.

Seahawks’ backfield dynamics and recent performance

Over the last two seasons, Seattle’s running back position has been a shared role primarily between Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet. Drafted consecutively in the second round, the duo has often been treated as co-starters in a 1A-1B setup rather than a clear number one and two option. This year, however, their performance gap has widened noticeably. Walker’s rushing average and yardage are substantially higher, despite similar snap counts.

Walker’s talent and productivity have stood out through six games, achieving a career-best 4.7 yards per carry and three rushing touchdowns. Charbonnet, while still valuable, has struggled to find consistency with a mere 2.6 yards per carry. This discrepancy has led to calls for a shift in workload distribution in Walker’s favor.

Klint Kubiak’s balancing act

Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak has faced a delicate decision in how to deploy Seattle’s running backs. His current philosophy involves rotating the backs by drives rather than individual plays, intending to keep them fresh for the long NFL season. While this strategy makes theoretical sense, it has at times disrupted offensive rhythm and stifled momentum.

In media interviews ahead of Week 7, Kubiak acknowledged that Walker has “certainly earned more” carries and that the coaching staff intends to give him increased opportunities moving forward. However, Kubiak also emphasized the importance of not discounting Charbonnet or George Holani, indicating that all three backs are expected to contribute significantly throughout the year.

Impact on offensive efficiency and playoff ambitions

Seattle’s inconsistent run-blocking has contributed to a somewhat sporadic rushing attack for Walker, manifesting in fluctuations in his production. In contrast, the offensive line’s improved pass protection has helped solidify the passing game. For the Seahawks to mount a credible playoff push, the running game needs a higher level of consistency and efficiency.

Quarterback Sam Darnold and star wide receiver Jaxon Smith-Njigba have elevated the Seahawks’ passing offense, but they cannot carry the team alone. Walker’s ability to consistently gain yards on the ground will be essential, especially in tough matchups like their Week 7 Monday Night Football game against the Houston Texans.

Monday Night Football showdown vs. Houston Texans

In the Week 7 contest, Walker led the Seahawks with 17 carries for 66 yards but was not involved as a receiver. Despite a strong showing from Charbonnet, who scored two key touchdowns, Walker maintained the primary workload. The Seahawks played well in the first half, leading by eight points at halftime and looking to keep pace in the competitive NFC West division.

Walker’s slow start during the game contrasted with Charbonnet’s more dynamic early impact, raising questions about the potential for Charbonnet to claim more carries. Nevertheless, the Seahawks continued to trust Walker for the majority of carries, especially between the tackles, while utilizing Charbonnet in red zone and clutch yardage situations.

Injury concerns and workload management

Walker has a known history of injuries, which likely informs the coaching staff’s cautious approach to limiting his snaps despite his current health. Balancing the desire to maximize his impact with the need to preserve his durability is a challenge. Opportunities to slightly increase his workload could push Seattle’s offensive efficiency higher, provided Walker maintains his health.

Seahawks’ outlook and strategy moving forward

Seattle’s offense is ranked highly among NFL teams, with a strong impact score driven by effective quarterback play and a productive running game. Walker ranks 22nd among running backs in impact ratings, a reflection of his overall contribution despite some inconsistency.

The 2025 Seahawks have a realistic opportunity in a competitive division featuring the San Francisco 49ers and Los Angeles Rams. Their success will hinge on a balanced offense and particularly on a productive, healthy ground game.

Coach Klint Kubiak’s usage of the backfield will be a storyline to watch as the season progresses, especially as they return from their bye week. The team’s ability to optimize Walker’s talents while keeping Charbonnet and Holani ready for their roles could ultimately determine the Seahawks’ postseason fate.

Conclusion

Kenneth Walker III has emerged as the clear lead back for the Seattle Seahawks this season, despite a shared workload with Zach Charbonnet. Offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak recognizes Walker’s superior performance and seems poised to increase his opportunities, although he remains committed to utilizing all three backs. For the Seahawks to sustain offensive momentum and make a deep playoff run, Walker’s production and health will be crucial, particularly as the NFC West remains fiercely contested. The team’s upcoming games, including a pivotal clash against the Houston Texans, will offer clearer insight into how the Seahawks manage their backfield and aim for success in the 2025 NFL campaign.

Questions and answers

Q: Seattle Seahawks running back depth chart 2025

A: The Seattle Seahawks' running back depth chart for 2025 features Kenneth Walker III as the presumed lead back given his promising talent and early career impact. Zach Charbonnet is expected to provide depth and complementary skills as a versatile runner and pass catcher out of the backfield. Other younger or newly acquired players may be vying for roles, but Walker and Charbonnet are likely to anchor the backfield. The Seahawks' coaching staff prioritizes a balanced rushing attack to support their offensive scheme.

Q: Kenneth Walker III vs Zach Charbonnet performance

A: Kenneth Walker III and Zach Charbonnet have shown different strengths in their performances. Walker is known for his explosiveness, vision, and ability to break tackles, making him a dynamic asset in both rushing and receiving. Charbonnet offers a more power-oriented style and can contribute effectively in short-yardage situations and pass protection. Comparing their stats typically shows Walker with higher yardage and big-play potential, while Charbonnet provides valuable versatility and reliability.

Q: Klint Kubiak Seahawks offensive strategy

A: Klint Kubiak’s offensive strategy with the Seahawks emphasizes a balanced attack combining a strong running game with efficient passing. He focuses on utilizing play-action to open up the field and maximize the talents of the quarterback and skill position players. Kubiak also values adaptability, adjusting the game plan based on defensive weaknesses and game flow. This approach aims to keep defenses off balance and sustain drives through a mix of power and quick, creative plays.

Q: Seattle Seahawks running game efficiency

A: The Seattle Seahawks' running game efficiency depends on effective blocking schemes and the ability of their running backs to gain yards after contact. With playmakers like Kenneth Walker III, the Seahawks can generate explosive runs and maintain steady ground yardage. Efficiency varies with the offensive line’s health and ability to create lanes, as well as how the run game complements the passing attack. Overall, improving running game efficiency remains a key focus to control the clock and open up play-action opportunities.

Q: Seahawks upcoming games and playoff chances

A: The Seattle Seahawks' upcoming schedule includes key divisional matchups and pivotal conference games that will significantly impact their playoff chances. Success in these games is crucial for securing a wild-card spot or contending for the division title. Their postseason prospects rely on maintaining consistency on offense and defense while avoiding injuries. Analysts often view the Seahawks as a team with potential to reach the playoffs if they capitalize on favorable matchups and improve in critical areas.

Key Entities

Seattle Seahawks: The Seattle Seahawks are a professional American football team based in Seattle, Washington, competing in the NFL's NFC West division. They have appeared in multiple Super Bowls and are recognized for their strong defensive play and passionate fan base known as the '12th Man.'

Kenneth Walker III: Kenneth Walker III is a professional NFL running back who played college football at Michigan State before being drafted by the Seattle Seahawks. Known for his speed and agility, Walker quickly established himself as a dynamic offensive weapon in Seattle's backfield.

Zach Charbonnet: Zach Charbonnet is an NFL running back who was drafted by the Seattle Seahawks after a notable college career at UCLA. He is valued for his power running and versatility as both a rusher and receiver out of the backfield.

Klint Kubiak: Klint Kubiak is the offensive coordinator for the Seattle Seahawks, responsible for shaping the team's offensive strategy. He brings experience from previous coaching roles in the NFL, including with the Denver Broncos and Minnesota Vikings.

Houston Texans: The Houston Texans are an NFL franchise based in Houston, Texas, competing in the AFC South division. Since their inception in 2002, the Texans have worked to build a competitive team through drafting and strategic coaching hires.

External articles

• Kenneth Walker III (running back)
• Kenneth Walker III
• Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak Sends Strong Message to RB ...

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YouTube Video

Title: MAJOR Changes The Seahawks Must Make Before Week 2 Ft. Riq Woolen, Kenneth Walker, & Klint Kubiak
Channel: Seahawks Today by Chat Sports
URL: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=5_J7WIy_JHU
Published: 1 month ago