Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker III returned to the field in Sunday’s Week 16 defeat to the Minnesota Vikings. Walker had missed Weeks 14 and 15 due to ongoing calf and ankle injuries. Unfortunately, he exited on Sunday again. Head coach Mike Macdonald later confirmed that he’ll be undergoing imaging tests on his ankle. He’s truly questionable for the Week 17’s short-week Thursday game versus the Chicago Bears.
Kenneth Walker III having tests on injured ankle. https://t.co/1p4XhH8hO1
— ProFootballTalk (@ProFootballTalk) December 23, 2024
Walker was largely ineffective on the ground against the Vikings before reaggravating his ankle injury. The former Michigan State standout was averaging 3.9 yards per carry, rushing for 31 yards via eight carries. Walker was significantly more impactful as a checkdown option in the passing game, accumulating eight receptions for 28 additional yards.
It’s been a difficult season for Walker. His injury issues began in Week 1. Walker suffered an abdomen injury in Seattle’s debut 2024 contest, causing him to miss the fourth quarter.
There’s a decent chance Zach Charbonnet will be carrying the workload for the Seahawks against the Bears. Charbonnet was barely involved versus the Vikings, rushing for negative one yard via one carry. He added 14 receiving yards as a pass catcher.
The Seahawks are fighting for their postseason lives. It would be outstanding if Walker was available versus the Bears and Los Angeles Rams in Week 18. Unfortunately, RB1 may be sidelined for a third occasion.