The Seattle Seahawks are entering the 2026 season with a big question mark in their backfield. With Ken Walker moving on and Zach Charbonnet recovering from a playoff knee injury, the team is on the hunt for their Week 1 starting running back.
A recent fan poll highlights the divided opinions among Seahawks supporters. A significant 36% of fans believe the answer lies within the current roster.
This suggests confidence that the next RB1 could emerge from the existing lineup, particularly pointing towards George Holani. Holani, who joined the league as an undrafted free agent in 2024, made his mark by contributing during the Seahawks' Super Bowl-winning season, showcasing his versatility on special teams and in situational plays.
General Manager John Schneider has also hinted at Holani's potential, praising his key performances last season, especially in the postseason. This internal belief fuels the idea that the team might rely on developing their in-house talent.
However, not everyone is convinced that the solution is internal. The poll indicates that 28% of fans are looking towards free agency for answers.
Seattle has already taken steps in this direction by bringing in Emanuel Wilson to bolster competition in the backfield. While Wilson hasn't been a primary back, his solid performances against teams like the Bears and Vikings demonstrate his potential to contribute.
His playing style aligns more closely with Charbonnet’s, adding another layer of intrigue to the situation, especially given Charbonnet's uncertain return.
Overall, when you combine the possibilities of free agency and the draft, a majority of 54% of fans think the Seahawks' next lead back might not yet be on the roster. This highlights the wide-open nature of the backfield competition.
For a team fresh off a Super Bowl win, the running back position remains a pivotal offseason storyline. With Charbonnet's recovery, Holani's potential rise, and the chance of new acquisitions, the Seahawks have multiple avenues to explore as they look to solidify their offensive lineup under a new offensive coordinator.