The Seattle Seahawks’ preferred running back. Kenneth Walker III did not practice Wednesday. It’s worth noting that the Seahawks held walkthrough practice, so Walker’s non-participation was a guess. Whatever the case, it seems unlikely that the former Michigan State star will appear on a Thursday Night Football Boxing Day special against the Chicago Bears in Week 17.

The Seahawks should hand the keys to the backfield to Zach Charbonnet, which could be a positive development for the offense.

Walker returned after a two-game absence to play in Week 16 against the Minnesota Vikings. Walker was ineffective before re-injuring his ankle, averaging 3.9 yards per carry (eight for 31). Charbonnet’s impact was also less, totaling just 13 yards, including minus-1 rushing yards.

Charbonnet was outstanding in the previous two contests where Walker was sidelined. The former UCLA Bruin scored a total of three touchdowns against the Green Bay Packers and Arizona Cardinals. In particular, in the game against Arizona, Charbonnet managed a career-high 134 yards. He averaged more than six yards per carry in both appearances.

Walker appears to have suffered a serious ankle injury. Walker tried to return against the Vikings, but the same ailment is now sidelining him again. Charbonnet is currently the healthier and more powerful back. Using Charbonnet against the Bears would be a positive development for Ryan Grubb’s offense.