The Seattle Seahawks surprised some draft analysts when they selected Zach Charbonnet in the second round of the 2023 NFL Draft. After all, they already had a promising young running back in Kenneth Walker III. This move left many fantasy football managers wondering: what does Charbonnet’s arrival mean for both running backs, and does he have standalone value in fantasy leagues? Let’s dive into his potential.
Charbonnet’s Skillset: A Blend of Power and Receiving Prowess
One of the first things that jumps out about Charbonnet is his unique combination of size and skill. He’s not afraid to run between the tackles and fight for extra yards, showcasing a powerful running style that wears down defenses. But what truly sets him apart is his comfort catching passes out of the backfield. In today’s NFL, a running back who can be a threat in both the run and pass game is a valuable asset, and Charbonnet has the potential to be just that.
Rookie Season Recap: Sharing the Backfield
Charbonnet’s rookie season provided glimpses of his potential, but it was always going to be a challenge to carve out a significant role alongside Walker. While he saw a near-equal number of snaps as his backfield counterpart, his opportunities were more limited. His most productive stretch came when Walker was sidelined due to injury, highlighting Charbonnet’s ability to handle a larger workload when called upon.
Projecting the 2024 Season: A Larger Role on the Horizon?
Heading into the 2024 season, the Seahawks find themselves with an intriguing dilemma. They have two talented running backs who offer different skillsets. Walker has shown explosiveness and big-play ability, while Charbonnet is the more physical, between-the-tackles runner with a knack for catching passes. This scenario has led to speculation that Seattle might employ a committee approach, utilizing both backs strategically to keep defenses guessing.
Fantasy Football Implications: Is Charbonnet Worth Drafting?
From a fantasy football perspective, Charbonnet’s value hinges on how the Seahawks choose to utilize him. If he earns a larger role in the passing game and receives a consistent number of carries, he could become a valuable asset in PPR (Point Per Reception) leagues. However, if he remains primarily a backup with limited touches, his upside will be capped.
Factors to Consider:
- Offensive Line Play: The Seahawks offensive line will play a crucial role in the success of both running backs. Improved blocking upfront will create more running lanes and scoring opportunities.
- Competition for Touches: Seattle has other offensive weapons, including wide receivers DK Metcalf and Tyler Lockett. How the Seahawks distribute touches amongst their playmakers will impact Charbonnet’s production.
- Injury Risk: Running back is a physically demanding position, and injuries are always a concern. Monitoring the health of both Charbonnet and Walker will be crucial for fantasy managers.
Conclusion: Proceed with Cautious Optimism
Zach Charbonnet possesses the talent to be a productive NFL running back. However, his fantasy value in 2024 will largely depend on the Seahawks coaching staff and how they choose to utilize their backfield. He’s a player to keep a close eye on during training camp and the preseason, as any indication of an expanded role could significantly boost his stock. For now, he’s a high-upside handcuff with the potential to develop into a weekly fantasy starter if things fall into place.
