The Seattle Seahawks are gearing up for their pivotal Week 17 matchup against the Chicago Bears, but they will be facing the challenge without their star running back, Ken Walker III. The promising young player, who has made significant contributions to the team this season, will be sidelined due to an ankle injury sustained during last week's game against the Washington Commanders. This marks the fifth game Walker has missed this season, leaving the coaching staff to turn to backup options to fill the void.
Head coach Mike Macdonald expressed confidence in the ability of rookie running backs Zach Charbonnet and Kenny McIntosh to step up to the plate during Walker's absence. "You guys have been exposed to Zach [Charbonnet] longer than I have," Macdonald noted, emphasizing the consistency and preparedness Charbonnet has shown since being drafted. "To me, it seems like he's been the same guy since we drafted him. He’s incredibly prepared, runs the ball tough, runs it hard, and I think he's growing as a player and as a person. That just speaks to his work ethic."
Charbonnet is expected to take on the primary rushing responsibilities against the Bears. With 95 carries and over 400 yards this season, he has shown flashes of potential and has eagerly awaited the opportunity to start. The coaching staff's faith is bolstered by his impressive work ethic and game preparation.
While Charbonnet may be the focal point of the running game, Kenny McIntosh is also poised to make his mark. Since being drafted as the team's seventh-round pick, McIntosh's role has grown significantly over the past few weeks, and he has become more involved, especially with 13 carries over the past three games. Macdonald praised McIntosh's ability to create positive plays, saying, "It seems like every time he touches the ball, something positive happens, which is good. He’s earned those opportunities, and I felt like he's done well, making the most of them. It’s really great for him to have another opportunity to shine this week."
Quarterback Geno Smith spoke highly of McIntosh's potential and dedication, stating, "I think he's been really, really dynamic when he touches the ball. Just the way he's finishing his runs, always falling forward, shows how talented he is." Smith shed light on the behind-the-scenes work McIntosh has put in this season, mentioning, "What people don't see is all the hard work Kenny has put in. He does a lot of work on his own as far as the weight room, classroom, and asking the right questions. He's being a true pro and coming to work every day trying to get things done."
Kickoff for the game is set for 5:15 p.m. PT at Lumen Field, and the stakes couldn't be higher for the Seahawks as they vie for playoff positioning. The team is hoping the adjustments to the lineup will provide the offensive spark needed to overcome the Bears, who are also dealing with their own struggles this season.
With Walker's absence, this game is particularly important. It offers both Charbonnet and McIntosh the chance to show what they are made of against Chicago’s defense. While fans are eager to see how the backfield will perform, the confidence expressed by both Macdonald and Smith indicates the team believes they have the capability to succeed. The Seahawks will need to pull together as they look to secure a much-needed victory and maintain their playoff hopes.
The upcoming game against the Bears is not just another game on the calendar; it's pivotal for the Seahawks' season. It’s a major test for the team's depth and resilience as they navigate the challenges of injuries and strive for success. The contributions from Charbonnet and McIntosh will be observed closely, as fans and analysts alike will look to gauge how well they can fill the shoes of the injured Walker. This matchup could define the Seahawks' season as they head toward the playoffs.
