Seahawks HC explains bizarre draft pick at RB

Seahawks HC Pete Carroll explained Seattle's bizarre decision to draft RB Zach Charbonnet in the second round despite having RB Kenneth Walker III, explaining the move adds a new element to the backfield.

“He’s so versatile. He just will fit in and be a great addition," Carroll told KIRO-AM in Seattle on Monday. "And really, we’re gonna find out how far he can take it in terms of the receiving part of it. We know he’s really good at it. But so is Kenneth, so those guys will be battling."

Carroll's comments probably refer to how Seattle will use Charbonnet as the primary pass-catching back, not a RB controversy.  

Last season, Walker III proved he's a legit starting RB, finishing second in Offensive Rookie of the Year voting after rushing for 1,050 yards and nine TDs in 15 games. He should remain an integral offensive component.

Charbonnet is a versatile back who recorded the FBS' 12th-most yards from scrimmage (1,680 in 10 games). Pairing Walker III and Charbonnet together could form a one-two punch rather than a competition.

Also, RB is more injury-prone than other positions, meaning a back may struggle to maintain his production even if he's elite. For example, Giants RB Saquon Barkley, a two-time Pro Bowler, last played an entire season in 2018, missing 22 games since 2019. Consequently, he's only rushed for 10 TDs or more twice in five seasons.

Before the draft, Seattle only had one RB besides Walker III (DeeJay Dallas). Seattle selecting Charbonnet and Georgia RB Kenny McIntosh in the seventh round re-stocks the RB cupboard.

Regardless, Seattle's backfield will be one to watch since it has a combination of dynamic, 22-year-old playmakers.