The situation has completely changed from last season for Zach Charbonnet, and here's what that means for fantasy. Seattle's backfield is entering 2025 with new leadership under head coach Mike Macdonald and offensive coordinator Klint Kubiak, creating an intriguing opportunity for the second-year back who quietly put together a solid 2024 campaign.
Season Setup
Charbonnet heads into his third season with significantly more momentum than many realize. While Kenneth Walker III grabbed headlines, Charbonnet appeared in all 17 games last season and delivered 186.9 PPR fantasy points compared to his rookie total of just 106.1. The coaching staff's comments about needing to preserve Walker while getting him more work in the new offense signals a potential shift toward a more balanced backfield approach.
Projected Role
The offseason moves tell you everything about how they plan to use him this year. Charbonnet's role should expand from his 2024 workload of 135 carries and 52 targets. His impressive preseason showing against Kansas City, where he rushed for 45 yards and a touchdown on just five carries, demonstrated he's ready for increased responsibility. The new offensive scheme under Kubiak should create more favorable running situations, and Charbonnet's 4.21 yards per carry efficiency last season suggests he can handle additional touches effectively.
Supporting Cast
The Seahawks' offensive infrastructure remains solid with a capable offensive line and established passing attack. The new coaching staff brings fresh perspective to maximize the running game, which could benefit both backs but particularly Charbonnet given his reliable availability. His receiving skills add another dimension, as evidenced by his 42 receptions for 340 yards in 2024, giving him flex appeal in PPR formats.
Path to Success
If you're looking for a safe floor with upside, this is your guy. Charbonnet's ceiling gets reached through continued efficiency and expanded opportunity. Walker's durability concerns create natural openings for increased usage, and Charbonnet has proven he can produce when given chances. His 8.1 yards per reception and ability to find the end zone eight times on the ground last season show he can capitalize on red zone opportunities.
Concerns to Monitor
The primary concern remains Walker's presence when healthy. Despite missing six games in 2024, Walker still averaged 16.47 PPR points per game when active, significantly outpacing Charbonnet's 10.99 per game average. If Walker stays healthy and the coaching staff leans heavily on him early in the season, Charbonnet's fantasy ceiling could be capped as a change-of-pace option.
Draft Strategy
Based on current PPR rankings, Charbonnet is being selected around pick 101 in the ninth round, representing solid value for his potential role. This draft price feels about right, but there's sneaky upside if things break his way with Walker's health or if the new offense creates more rushing opportunities overall. He profiles as an excellent RB3 with RB2 upside weeks, making him valuable in deeper leagues or as a handcuff play for Walker owners.
Test different draft strategies with our fantasy football mock drafts to see how this pick fits your roster construction. Charbonnet represents the type of reliable depth piece that can win leagues when injuries or opportunity shifts occur throughout the season.
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