Who Should I Start? Kenneth Gainwell or Emanuel Wilson

Tuesday, March 17, 6:33 AM

Seattle Seahawks running back Emanuel Wilson landed in a more favorable spot this offseason, and now, he finds himself trending up in fantasy football. Wilson spent three years as a depth option in Green Bay before signing with the Seahawks last week. The former undrafted free agent posted at least 550 scrimmage yards in each of the last two seasons, offering the Packers a reliable backup to Josh Jacobs. Wilson ended up making two starts last year, including an impressive Week 12 performance in which he posted 28 carries, 107 rushing yards, two catches, 18 receiving yards, and a pair of touchdowns. Seattle lost Kenneth Walker III to the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency, and Wilson is the only significant backfield addition the Seahawks have made since then. The move pairs Wilson with Zach Charbonnet (knee), who could be the Seahawks' eventual starter but will first have to clear a major injury hurdle. Charbonnet is working his way back from a torn ACL that he suffered in the playoffs, so he might not be ready for Week 1 next season. Even if he does play, he likely won't be at 100%. At this point, it seems likely that Wilson -- not Charbonnet -- will take the Seahawks' first snap at running back in 2026, giving him plenty of early-season upside. As the Seahawks' potential lead back, Wilson can be an RB2 in fantasy football early next year, and similarly, he's a long-term RB3/flex with RB2 upside in dynasty formats. Managers should consider sending out trade offers for Wilson, since he's still currently affordable in dynasty leagues. He's an especially appealing option for Charbonnet's managers who want his handcuff.