The Seahawks’ backfield remains a challenge to evaluate. In Week 5, Zach Charbonnet ended up as the leading PPR scorer over Kenneth Walker, but things still feel confusing. Is Charbonnet going to lead this backfield in Week 6 and beyond? Or will Walker reclaim the top spot in the backfield?
Analysis
Both Charbonnet and Walker have shared the backfield for four games this season. Charbonnet has led the backfield in snaps during three of those four games, including the game against the Buccaneers this past Sunday. He’s their go-to back on passing downs and the better pass protector. But it still leaves an interesting balance.
Walker has taken 68 carries for 330 yards and three scores this year. Compared to Charbonnet’s 48 carries for 132 yards and three scores, he blows him out of the water as a runner. Despite getting the majority of the passing-down snaps, Charbonnet hasn’t turned that into much production. Zach only has four targets in the passing game compared to eight for Walker. Walker continues to look great in the run game on a weekly basis.
There’s no denying that pass blocking is crucial. With the Seahawks in some close, high-scoring affairs this year, it’s no wonder Charbonnet continues to lead the backfield in touches. But as Walker continues to out-produce him in fantasy football on the season, it makes us wonder who is the better back to own from now on.
The verdict
Charbonnet’s work as a passing-down back has yet to translate to real fantasy value. They continue to feed him carries, but his 2.8 yards per carry mark is a huge concern. If Walker continues to get 4.9 yards per carry, he will be the first call for their early-down runs and red-zone work.
Charbonnet leeching valuable passing-down work from Walker is frustrating, but I trust Walker to be the superior fantasy football player for the rest of the season. The higher rushing upside makes him worth the committee headache.
