The NFL season is fast approaching, and your redraft fantasy drafts are right around the corner. As training camps get underway, there are many question marks about NFL running back rooms. With the emergence of running back by committees, the days of being able to draft multiple bellcow running backs in fantasy leagues look like they are over. With that in mind, in this series of articles, we will look at crowded running back rooms and how you should be attacking each this season. First up is the Seattle Seahawks.
Offensive Scheme
In the face of low expectations, Seattle's offensive coordinator Shane Waldron managed to orchestrate an impressive turnaround for the team in the 2022 season. Despite the challenges of trading their franchise quarterback Russell Wilson in the off-season and relying on rookie offensive tackles, the offensive unit showed remarkable growth and success. Under Waldron's guidance, journeyman quarterback Geno Smith experienced a breakout season, exceeding expectations and delivering strong performances on the field. Smith's improved play contributed significantly to the team's success throughout the year.
In addition to Smith's resurgence, rookie running back Ken Walker III showcased his talent and potential, finishing as a runner-up for Offensive Rookie of the Year. Walker surpassed the coveted milestone of 1,000 rushing yards, proving to be a valuable asset in the backfield and a promising addition to the team. Waldron's offensive scheme and play-calling were key to Seattle's resurgence and their return to the NFL playoffs. His ability to maximize the potential of the team's players and create a cohesive unit led to impressive performances and success on the field.
Even with that success, there is plenty of room for improvement. They finished ninth in points scored but ranked 28th in redzone conversion rate. Leaving a ton of points on the field and fantasy points out there. This system and its success will also largely hinge on their offensive line development. The Seahawks gave up the ninth-most sacks last year at 46, and this year according to both Footballguys offensive line power rankings and PFF’s rankings, they are near the bottom of the league in both pass and run block categories. If both Charles Cross and Abraham Lucas improve, then those rankings are far too low, but it is worth noting that this group could struggle, which could limit the ceiling for their running back room. However, if you are looking to draft any of these running backs, let's identify the best value.
Ken Walker III
- Contract Status: Year 2 - 4 yr(s) / $8,441,581
- Free Agent: 2026/UFA
- Age: 22
- Redraft ADP: 6th Round RB16
- Dynasty ADP: 5th Round RB12
Heading into the off-season, Ken Walker III was highly valued as a top-5 dynasty running back. However, his value has declined in all formats after the addition of UCLA rookie running back Zach Charbonnet in the NFL draft. Despite this, Walker's performance in the previous season showcased his potential as a fantasy asset. He rushed for 1,050 yards and nine touchdowns, and once he took over as the starter due to Rashaad Penny's injury, he averaged over 15 fantasy points per game. If projected over the full season, he would have finished as a high-end RB2 with RB1 upside.
One area of concern for Walker is his performance in the red zone, where he had the second most carries in the NFL but converted only seven of them for touchdowns. Additionally, his limited usage in the Seahawks' passing attack, with just 35 targets, further limits his upside as a consistent fantasy starter. However, considering his current ADP, his value appears fairly priced.
Despite the additions to the Seahawks' running back room, Walker remains the most talented back in the group. In crowded backfields, the tendency is to favor the most skilled player, and Walker fits that description. He has the potential to follow a similar path as Nick Chubb in fantasy football. Chubb's receiving work limits his value, but his rushing volume and improved efficiency make him a valuable asset. Walker's value could similarly be derived from his rushing performance and potential improvement in efficiency.
Moreover, an injury to Charbonnet could provide a significant opportunity for Walker to become a top-5 asset in all fantasy formats. Considering recent developments in dynasty leagues, Walker presents as a buying opportunity. His talent, where he currently ranks in dynasty rankings, and the potential for an increased workload make him an enticing option for fantasy managers looking to bolster their running back corps.
- Redraft Meter: ADP Value
- Dynasty Meter: Buy-Low
Recent Dynasty Trades Involving Walker (12 Team SF PPR):
- Walker for Romeo Doubs/Diontae Johnson/2025 2nd
- Walker for Christian Watson/2023 3rd
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