The Seattle Seahawks face a pivotal decision in free agency regarding running back Kenneth Walker's contract offer. A key factor in this decision is the health of Zach Charbonnet, who tore his ACL in the Divisional Round against the 49ers. Head coach Mike Macdonald recently shared some encouraging news about Charbonnet's recovery, hinting at a potentially quicker return than initially expected.
Charbonnet's surgery had to be delayed until the knee swelling subsided, but Macdonald suggested that the procedure was successful. This is notable, as Macdonald is known for his cautious approach to discussing injuries.
While Macdonald didn't provide a specific timeline, he expressed optimism, saying, "If you’re betting on anybody, you’re going to bet on Zach." Despite this positive outlook, Charbonnet won't be participating in spring minicamp, which isn't a major concern at this stage.
Initially, it was feared that Charbonnet might miss the start of the 2026 season, which, combined with Walker's potential departure, could leave the Seahawks without a proven running back. The backups, George Holani and Kenny McIntosh, have their own injury histories and haven't been tested as lead backs in Brian Fleury's new offense.
Even with a successful surgery, Charbonnet's rehabilitation process remains crucial, and timelines for ACL recovery can be unpredictable. The hope is that both Walker re-signs and Charbonnet returns by Week 1 of 2026, allowing the Seahawks to build on their successful 2025 season. For now, the Seahawks and their fans will be watching Charbonnet's progress closely, hoping for a strong comeback.