RADIO
Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker suffered an oblique injury after Week 1 of the NFL season, which has resulted in him missing Week 2 and Week 3.
With many fantasy managers questioning whether Kenneth Walker is healthy, this week's practice participation will significantly indicate whether Walker returns to the field for Monday night football.
So, when is Kenneth Walker returning? Is he still injured? Let's dive in.
Be sure to check all of our fantasy football rankings for 2024:- Quarterback fantasy football rankings
- Running back fantasy football rankings
- Wide receiver fantasy football rankings
- Tight end fantasy football rankings
- Kicker fantasy football rankings
- FLEX fantasy football rankings
- Defense (D/ST) fantasy football rankings
- Superflex fantasy football rankings
- IDP fantasy football rankings
- Dynasty fantasy football rankings
Is Kenneth Walker Playing in Week 4
Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker (oblique) has not practiced in over two weeks and seems to be doubtful yet again this week.
His availability for the Week 4 matchup against the Detroit Lions is becoming increasingly uncertain. Nonetheless, fantasy managers should watch his practice status on Friday and check how the team officially lists him for Sunday.
His status as of Thursday is questionable, but fantasy managers should expect to be without Seattle's starting running back as he still seems to be battling his oblique injury.
Kenneth Walker grasping at what appears to be his right oblique after light “sprinting” (maybe going 50%?).
Micro-movement in straight line. If this is bothering him, I doubt he can twist, COD, catch, block without pain.
Few weeks out is my guess. 👇🏼
pic.twitter.com/NAYzKNuiAT— Jeff Mueller, PT, DPT (@jmthrivept) September 18, 2024
Kenneth Walker Week 4 Fantasy Football Outlook
If Kenneth Walker manages to play this week against the Detroit Lions, he shouldn’t be viewed as an automatic starter despite his talent and potential. The Lions currently rank first in the NFL in rushing defense, making it a challenging matchup for any running back.
Even if Walker is active, he may be dealing with a pain tolerance issue that could limit his effectiveness and result in him being on a snap count, significantly curtailing his opportunities to impact the game.
Fantasy managers must weigh the risk of starting a potentially compromised Walker against the likelihood of facing one of the most formidable run defenses in the league.
If Walker cannot return, fantasy managers should look to start Zach Charbonnet, who would step into the role of three-down back for Seattle. Charbonnet has shown promise in limited action and could capitalize on the additional carries, making him a valuable option against a Lions defense that, while tough, could be susceptible to a fresh running back looking to prove himself.
Zach Charbonnet in Week 3:
18 rushes (100% team share)
91 yards
2 TD
3-16-0 receiving on 4 targetspic.twitter.com/gINct0YusZ— Underdog NFL (@Underdog__NFL) September 22, 2024
While Walker's presence is intriguing, his health and the matchup make it prudent for managers to explore alternatives if he’s not 100%. Fantasy managers should expect Walker to return to full health closer to next week.
Download Our Free News & Alerts Mobile App
Like what you see? Download our updated fantasy football app for iPhone and Android with 24x7 player news, injury alerts, rankings, starts/sits & more. All free!
Win More With RotoBaller
Be sure to also check out all of our other daily fantasy football articles and analysis to help you set those winning lineups, including this new RotoBaller YouTube video:
More Fantasy Football Analysis
