Seahawks RB Picture Shifts After Walker Exit, Price Role Takes Shape

The Seattle Seahawks entered the 2026 offseason facing the financial and roster consequences that often follow a championship run. After capturing a Super Bowl title, the organization experienced significant turnover in free agency, including the departure of key contributors who helped define their recent success.

Among the most notable exits was Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III, whose departure created an immediate void in Seattle’s backfield. His exit, combined with other roster losses, has forced the Seahawks to reshape their offensive approach heading into the new season.

To address the need at running back, Seattle invested in the draft, selecting Jadarian Price in the first round. The move signaled both confidence in his talent and recognition that the backfield would require a long-term solution rather than a short-term replacement.

However, early projections suggest that Price’s role in his rookie season may not be as straightforward as a traditional lead-back assignment, with the Seahawks expected to deploy a more balanced rotation.

1. A Rotational Backfield Plan Takes Shape

According to reporting from ESPN’s Brady Henderson, the Seahawks are preparing for a committee approach rather than handing full responsibility to their top draft pick. While Price is expected to handle a significant workload, he is not necessarily being positioned as a sole featured back. Henderson noted that Seattle views Price more as a replacement for Walker’s production than a locked-in RB1. That distinction reflects the team’s broader offensive philosophy, which has long favored shared responsibilities in the backfield. The Seahawks also added veteran Emanuel Wilson in free agency, further signaling their intention to distribute carries. Wilson’s experience provides balance to a group that still includes young depth pieces. As a result, Seattle’s running game is expected to function as a layered system rather than relying on a single dominant runner, especially early in the season.

2. Injury Timeline Adds Complexity

Complicating the backfield picture is the status of Zach Charbonnet, who suffered a torn ACL during Seattle’s playoff win over San Francisco. His injury places uncertainty on his availability for the start of the 2026 season. While Charbonnet is expected to return at some point during the year, his absence early on forces the Seahawks to adjust their workload distribution. The team is unlikely to have him available for Week 1, leaving additional responsibilities to others in the rotation. Before his injury, Charbonnet played a meaningful role in Seattle’s offense, recording a career-high workload in 2025. His production included 184 carries for 730 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, reinforcing his value as part of a committee system. His eventual return could significantly alter the backfield dynamic, potentially reducing snaps for other contributors once he regains full health.

3. Price’s Role And Early Expectations

Despite being a first-round pick, Price is entering a situation that requires patience and adaptability. Rather than being handed an every-down role immediately, he is expected to compete for touches in a shared system. Seattle’s coaching staff is likely to evaluate how Price performs in multiple phases of the game, including early-down carries, pass protection, and receiving ability. His usage may expand gradually depending on performance and game situations. Alongside Price and Wilson, George Holani is also expected to factor into the rotation, particularly during the early weeks of the season. This group approach allows Seattle to manage workloads while waiting for Charbonnet’s return. Ultimately, the Seahawks are prioritizing flexibility in their offensive backfield, with Price positioned as a central piece but not yet the undisputed lead option heading into his rookie year.