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With the release of the Seattle Seahawks schedule, an injury update for star running back Zach Charbonnet released on Thursday. Charbonnet tore his ACL during the NFL playoffs. In February, he received surgery for the injury. Optimistically, the Seattle Seahawks expect their star running back to return in December.

During the NFL Draft, the Seahawks selected Jadarian Price in the first round knowing that Charbonnet should miss most of the 2026 season. Price already creates excitement with how he looked during offseason training. Many suspect he may rise as a candidate for Offensive Rookie of the Year.

With Charbonnet sidelined for most of the season, Price perhaps takes a workhorse role. However, the Seahawks signed Emanuel Wilson in free agency, and they also still roster George Holani and Kenny McIntosh.

Seattle Seahawks Zach Charbonnet Return Expectation Optimistic

GettyCharbonnet massively impacted the Seattle Seahawks season in 2025.

Charbonnet produced very well for the Seahawks last season. Overall, he provided 874 scrimmage yards and 12 touchdowns. Even in a time share with Kenneth Walker III, Charbonnet showcased his value to the Seattle Seahawks offense. Especially at the goal line, he was a difference maker. In 2025, PFF gave him a grade of 85.9 ranking 5th among 55 eligible running backs.

The Seahawks fail to have a true replacement for that role, but perhaps Price can develop into a three down back. The Seahawks seem to hold huge expectations for the rookie running back.

The selection of Price indicates that the Seahawks plan on letting Charbonnet walk in free agency in 2027. With his production profile, Charbonnet should land a solid contract with another NFL franchise pretty easily even in a part-time role. However, any hope of a committee like last season seems unlikely. Considering the options the Seahawks control under Price, one of those players needs to take a step forward.

If the Seahawks optimistic projection of a December return occurs, then Seattle should have a dangerous duo of running backs for the playoffs. However, that return date seems optimistic when looking at the history of ACL recoveries. That being said, the Seahawks respect Charbonnet’s work ethic enough to give him the benefit of the doubt.

Charbonnet’s Injury Could Help Seahawks Keep Him

Getty The Seahawks could get lucky if teams have injury concerns about Charbonnet.

Despite being unlikely, the Seahawks may receive some fortunate news if the Charbonnet fails to attract a free agent market like Walker. Teams should present interest in Charbonnet, but if they show concerns about his injury history, maybe the Seahawks can offer him a one year contract to return.

The Seahawks in the past capitalized on injury riddled seasons to obtain players at a good value. Demarcus Lawrence last season is a great example. Lawrence missed most of the 2024 season with the Dallas Cowboys with injury, making people think he entered the downside of his career. However, as shown with his success last season, he still holds plenty in the tank defensively. They love Charbonnet, so a reunion at the right price makes a ton of sense.