Who Should I Start? Zach Charbonnet or Omarion Hampton

Saturday, February 14, 6:21 AM

Seattle Seahawks running back Zach Charbonnet (knee) spent the majority of the 2025 season in a relatively even playing time split with fellow Seahawks back Kenneth Walker III. However, Charbonnet suffered a torn ACL in his knee during Seattle's NFC Divisional Round win over the San Francisco 49ers. Given the timing of the injury, Charbonnet could miss the start of the 2026 season, if not more. Across 16 regular-season games, the 25-year-old recorded 730 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns on 184 carries. Charbonnet established himself as Seattle's preferred option at the goal-line and has racked up 20 rushing touchdowns over the past two seasons. While the Seahawks are reportedly looking to re-sign him, Walker III is now set to hit unrestricted free agency this offseason. If Walker III were to sign elsewhere, Charbonnet could take over as the team's lead back once he gets healthy. Still, given the nature of his injury and Walker III's standout playoff run after Charbonnet went down, it seems unlikely that Charbonnet will be ticketed for anything more than a support upon his return. Charbonnet's long-term outlook in dynasty formats should take a hit as a result of his unfortunate injury setback.

Tuesday, January 27, 12:50 PM

Los Angeles Chargers running back Omarion Hampton battled through an injury-marred rookie season in 2025, playing in just nine out of 17 games. However, the 22-year-old was productive when healthy, recording 737 scrimmage yards and five touchdowns on 156 touches. Beyond just improved health, there are reasons to think that the offensive environment around Hampton in Los Angeles in 2026 will be enhanced. For one, Chargers offensive tackles Rashawn Slater (knee) and Joe Alt (ankle) should be back in the lineup after the two combined to play just six games in 2025. Additionally, Los Angeles will have a new play-caller after moving on from former offensive coordinator Greg Roman and hiring former Miami Dolphins head coach Mike McDaniel. During his tenure in Miami, McDaniel consistently showed an ability to boost running back production. Under McDaniel, Dolphins running back De'Von Achane has posted back-to-back seasons with at least 60 receptions, 1,400 scrimmage yards, and double-digit touchdowns. Fantasy managers in both redraft and dynasty formats should view Hampton as a high-upside running back option heading into 2026.