The Seattle Seahawks didn't have running back Kenneth Walker's available for the bulk of practice last week, but by the time the weekend arrived, Walker was a key contributor to a win over the Tennessee Titans.
Fast-forward to this week and ... more of the same during practice. ... and, it can be hoped, ultimately, more of the same once we get to NFL Week 17 Sunday.
The standout running back Walker didn't participate in Thursday's practice due to a shoulder injury. ... a key issue to watch as Seattle continues to try to push for a playoff berth for a seconds straight season.
Walker was a helper in the 20-17 win over the Titans that keeps alive the hope that at 8-7, the Seahawks can maintain control one of the NFC Wild Card spots that are up for grabs. ... all of which is part of a rebound from coach Pete Carroll's bunch recent four-game losing streak, which looked like it might ruin Seattle's playoff chances.
The Seahawks recorded a memorable victory over the Philadelphia Eagles and then, with QB Geno Smith valiantly leading the way, created more memories over the Titans.
And now? Let's call Walker's status "uncertain'' for Sunday's game against the Steelers.
Walker, in his second NFL season, has been quite productive as he has battled through a couple of injury issues, including when the former second-round pick missed two games last month due to an oblique issue.
When Walker can't go, rookie Zach Charbonnet has also been productive, and that might have to be the case this weekend at Lumen Field.
The Seahawks have a slight chance at clinching a playoff berth in Week 17. But it is more likely that wins over the Steelers and then the NFC West rival Arizona Cardinals might be needed to seal the deal.
And ideally, Kenneth Walker is around to help.
More must-reads: