The Seattle Seahawks are facing a significant challenge as they head into the final stretch of the 2024 NFL season without their leading running back, Kenneth Walker III. The team has placed Walker on injured reserve following an ankle injury he sustained during a crucial Week 16 matchup against the Minnesota Vikings, which the Seahawks lost 27-24. This injury marks another setback for Walker, who has already dealt with oblique and calf injuries earlier in the season, causing him to miss four games prior. With his current stats showing 153 carries for 573 yards and seven touchdowns over 11 games, Walker's absence will undoubtedly be felt on the field.

As the Seahawks sit at an 8-7 record and are in a tight race for the NFC West Division title, they will have to rely on backup options to fill the gap left by Walker. Zach Charbonnet is expected to take on a more significant role in the run game, while other depth running backs like Kenny McIntosh and George Holani will also be called upon. The Seahawks have pivotal games ahead, including a matchup against the Chicago Bears in Week 17, followed by a critical clash against the Los Angeles Rams in Week 18, where every game becomes vital for their playoff aspirations.

The Seattle Seahawks have announced that running back Ken Walker III has been placed on injured reserve, effectively ending his season. This decision comes after Walker suffered an ankle injury during the previous week's game against the Minnesota Vikings, leading to his absence in the upcoming matchup against the Chicago Bears. According to NFL regulations, a player on injured reserve must miss a minimum of four games, meaning Walker could only return if the Seahawks reach the NFC Championship Game.

This season has been particularly challenging for Walker, who has struggled with injuries throughout his third year in the league. He has already missed four games earlier in the season due to an oblique strain and a calf issue. As a result, his statistics reflect a downturn, with career-low numbers in rushing attempts, rushing yards, and yards per attempt. Despite these setbacks, he managed to score eight touchdowns over 11 starts.

With Walker sidelined, Zach Charbonnet is set to take on a more significant role, marking his fifth start of the season. Charbonnet has shown promise in his previous starts, accumulating impressive rushing yards and touchdowns, including a standout performance against the Arizona Cardinals. Additionally, Kenny McIntosh is expected to contribute as a change-of-pace back, having demonstrated his versatility in recent games.

The Seahawks' roster adjustments also include the signing of undrafted rookie George Holani from the practice squad. While Holani's contributions have primarily been on special teams, he adds depth to the backfield as the team navigates the challenges posed by Walker's injury.

The Seattle Seahawks are facing a significant setback in their playoff aspirations as they have placed running back Kenneth Walker III on injured reserve. This decision comes after Walker sustained an ankle injury during the fourth quarter of a recent game against the Minnesota Vikings. Despite being ruled out for the upcoming Thursday night matchup against the Chicago Bears, Walker's absence will be felt deeply, especially since he has been the team's leading rusher this season.

Walker, who was drafted in the second round in 2022, has had a tumultuous season plagued by injuries. He missed two games earlier in the season due to an oblique injury and faced another setback in December with a calf issue. His placement on IR means he will be sidelined for at least four games, effectively ending his season unless the Seahawks can make a deep playoff run. In his 11 appearances, Walker has managed to accumulate 573 rushing yards and seven touchdowns, leading the team in both categories.

In response to Walker's injury, the Seahawks have signed rookie George Holani from their practice squad, who will now serve as the third running back behind Zach Charbonnet and Kenny McIntosh. Charbonnet has been impressive in Walker's absence, recording 453 rushing yards and a team-high eight rushing touchdowns this season. However, the Seahawks' overall rushing performance has been disappointing, ranking 30th in the league for rushing yards per game. With the stakes high, a loss against the Bears, combined with a win by the Los Angeles Rams over the Arizona Cardinals, would eliminate Seattle from playoff contention.

The Seattle Seahawks have placed running back Kenneth Walker III on injured reserve due to an ankle injury sustained during last week's game against the Minnesota Vikings. This setback comes after Walker had already missed two games earlier in the season due to a calf injury and another two in September because of an oblique issue. Despite his injuries, Walker has had a productive season, accumulating 573 rushing yards and seven touchdowns on 153 carries. Since being drafted in the second round by Seattle in 2022, he has tallied 2,528 rushing yards and 24 touchdowns in his career.

With the Seahawks' playoff chances dwindling, Walker's absence is a significant blow to the team's hopes. As they entered their game against the Chicago Bears with an 8-7 record, Seattle was trailing the NFC West-leading Los Angeles Rams, who held a 9-6 record. For the Seahawks to secure a playoff spot, they would need to win their final two regular-season games while hoping the Rams lose against the Arizona Cardinals. The team's strategy hinges on a strong finish to the season, with a crucial matchup against the Rams looming.

To fill the gap left by Walker, Seattle has signed rookie running back George Holani from their practice squad. This move reflects the urgency to maintain their offensive capabilities as they strive to keep their playoff hopes alive in a competitive NFC West.

The Seattle Seahawks are facing critical injury concerns for their running backs as they prepare for a Thursday night game against the Chicago Bears. Coach Mike Macdonald provided limited updates on Ken Walker III, who is undergoing tests for an ankle injury sustained in the recent loss to the Minnesota Vikings.

Walker has struggled with injuries this season, missing four games, and his effectiveness has declined. Zach Charbonnet has performed well in his absence, but he too is battling injuries. The Seahawks may need to elevate rookie George Holani from the practice squad if Walker's condition worsens.

With the importance of the upcoming game, the Seahawks need to improve their rushing performance after a disappointing outing against Minnesota. Macdonald emphasized the need for better offensive balance to secure a crucial win.