The Seattle Seahawks rolled into the 2024 NFL season with only three running backs on their roster. When the initial 53 was announced, we questioned if that was a good idea, given the inherent high-injury rate at that position. It didn't take long for that to turn out a valid critique, because going into Week 2 it looks like they may have to go without the guy who's supposed to be the focal point of their offense this season.
That's third-year running back Kenneth Walker III, who has missed practice the last two days for the Seahawks as he's dealing with an oblique injury he suffered in the team's season opener against the Denver Broncos. Here's the latest on Walker and a few other key injured players, including wide receiver Tyler Lockett.
RB Kenneth Walker III
Walker was listed as a non-participant at Thursday's practice, the same as Wednesday. Trending that way is generally a sign that a player is unlikely to be available for Sunday's game, but there are exceptions. We'll have to wait and see what his status is when the last injury report of the week comes out later today. If Walker can't go against the New England Patriots, backup Zach Charbonnet will start in his place. Kenny McIntosh will be the next man up, and most likely rookie George Holani will be elevated from the practice squad.
WR Tyler Lockett
The hero from Week 1 is also dealing with a lingering injury. 10-year wide receiver Tyler Lockett has been limited at practice going back to last month due to a thigh issue. Lockett did not play in the preseason and his snap count was significantly lower last week than it usually is. They may be managing his injury, or it could be a sign that we are nearing the end of our journey with number 16. Lockett was limited both Wednesday and Thursday at practice but he is expected to play.
RT George Fant
The news is not so positive for temporary starting right tackle George Fant, though. He left Sunday's win over Denver in the first quarter with what turned out to be a knee injury and was quickly ruled out. Fant has not practiced yet this week and like Walker seems unlikely to play. If he's out Stone Forsythe will start at right tackle and seventh-round rookie Mike Jerrell wuld be the next man up after him.
LB Tyrel Dodson
One of many defensive standouts in Week 1 was middle linebacker Tyrel Dodson, who also got dinged up during the game. Dodson did not practice on Wednesday but he is trending in the right direction, as he was upgraded to limited on Thursday. If Dodson cant play though, rookie Tyrice Knight would project to replace him in the starting lineup.
Read More: Kenneth Walker III doubtful, what it means for Seahawks offense
