Seattle Seahawks Boast Best Running Back Duo in Franchise History
The Seattle Seahawks are enjoying a significant turnaround in their running game, thanks to a standout duo of running backs: Ken Walker III and Zach Charbonnet. After drafting them with two second-round picks in 2022 and 2023, questions arose about the franchise’s investment in running backs at a time when the position is often undervalued. However, positive developments have emerged in 2025, making a strong case for this duo as the best running back tandem in the team’s history.
Seattle Seahawks Running Back Duo: A Historical Perspective
In their first two seasons together, Walker and Charbonnet showed promise but did not achieve dominance. The Seahawks initially ranked 28th in rushing yards during 2023 and 2024. However, by 2025, their performance has markedly improved, with the team now sitting 10th in rushing yards.
Performance Highlights
- Ken Walker III accumulated 1,300 yards from scrimmage.
- Walker averaged an impressive 5.2 yards per touch.
- Zach Charbonnet contributed twelve rushing touchdowns.
- Pro Football Focus ranked Walker and Charbonnet as second and third in offensive grades, respectively.
- Walker ranks second in the NFL for missed tackles forced per carry.
- Walker also had multiple runs of over 10 yards per carry.
This formidable duo has transformed Seattle into a run-first offense that effectively controls games and challenges opposing defenses. The increased efficiency has breathed new life into the franchise’s running game.
A Legacy of Running Back Duos
Historically, the Seahawks have had several notable running back pairs. In the late 1970s, Sherman Smith and David Sims made their mark, combining for 1,200 yards and 15 touchdowns. Further successes included:
- 1979: Smith and Dan Doornink combined for over 2,206 yards and 24 touchdowns.
- 1986-1988: Curt Warner paired with John Williams, leading to impressive yardage and touchdowns.
- 1990: Derrick Fenner added 1,000 yards alongside Williams’ 1,400 yards.
Although other combinations, like Chris Carson and Rashaad Penny, showed exceptional potential, injuries hampered their full effectiveness. Now, Walker and Charbonnet represent what could have been, delivering the production and effectiveness the Seahawks have long sought.
Looking Ahead
As the Seahawks aim for a Super Bowl run in 2025, their running back duo has the potential to secure a historic legacy. Walker and Charbonnet not only embody the present strength of the franchise but also the future possibilities for their offense.
The Seattle Seahawks have found a dynamic and productive partnership that might very well redefine success in their running game history.
