Seattle Seahawks running back Kenneth Walker has dealt with a handful of injuries since he entered the league in 2022. The former Michigan State product has yet to play in a full season and missed the last two weeks with an oblique injury he suffered in the team's season-opener.
Walker's oblique injury didn't seem to be a major concern for him after he told reporters he'd be fine following Week 1. However, that hasn't been the case.
So, when is Walker coming back to action? What is his fantasy football outlook when he returns? Let's dive in.
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Kenneth Walker Injury Update for Fantasy Football
When Walker injured his oblique in the season-opener, there was a strong possibility that he would be sidelined for an extended time. Then, a report came out that the Seahawks would take "extreme caution" with his oblique issue. As a result, it's not a surprise to see him miss both Week 2 and Week 3 with that injury.
But a return could be close for Walker. After not practicing at all before Week 2, the Seahawks running back practiced in a limited fashion on Friday before being ruled out for Week 3. So, there's a chance he will be ready to go on Monday night against the Detroit Lions, especially with an extra day to rest.
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
His practice status leading up to Week 4 will be key in whether Walker will suit up. The good news is that head coach Mike Macdonald said on Friday that he is hopeful his star running back will return for Monday's game.
Kenneth Walker Fantasy Football Outlook
After a strong Week 1 performance, fantasy managers haven't been able to put Walker back into their lineups due to his recent oblique injury. But following his 20-carry, 103-yard, one-touchdown performance against the Broncos to start the season, it's safe to say that he will be a strong RB2 option for the rest of the season.
Kenneth Walker III doing some pregame running. This might just be getting in a little workout. But he’s eligible to play at the moment. Inactives will come 90 minutes prior to kickoff. pic.twitter.com/UGL6XyOCAB
— Bob Condotta (@bcondotta) September 22, 2024
So, if there is a chance to buy low on the Seahawks running back before Week 4, fantasy managers should do it. If he returns to the lineup on Monday, though, expectations should be tempered against the Lions. Detroit has allowed the fewest fantasy points to opposing running backs this season. Therefore, he might be a risky start in his first game back.
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