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Zach Charbonnet Has ACL Surgery as Seahawks Face Kenneth Walker Decision

The operation begins a recovery projected at roughly nine months, putting pressure on Seattle to reinforce its backfield before free agency opens.

Overview

  • Charbonnet announced his ACL surgery on Instagram nearly five weeks after tearing the ligament in the divisional-round win over the 49ers, sharing a hospital-bed message that included a Bible verse.
  • An NFL physical therapist cited in reporting projects about a nine-month rehab, placing the earliest realistic return around Week 12 in late November and making a Week 1 appearance unlikely.
  • Super Bowl MVP Kenneth Walker III is approaching free agency, and multiple reports indicate Seattle is unlikely to use the franchise tag, leaving his future with the team uncertain.
  • If Walker departs or Charbonnet is not cleared to start the season, reporting suggests the Seahawks will need to add running back help, with 49ers back Brian Robinson mentioned as a familiar option for new OC Brian Fleury.
  • ESPN analysis, cited in coverage, notes Seattle may have to choose between re-signing Walker or retaining receiver-returner Rashid Shaheed due to comparable expected market values and cap priorities.