Seahawks RB Depth Chart: Price, Charbonnet Out; Emanuel Wilson Steps Up

As the 2026 NFL season hits its stride in mid-October, the Seattle Seahawks find themselves navigating a treacherous stretch without their top two running backs. The departures and injuries have forced head coach Mike Macdonald and general manager John Schneider to dig deep into their roster, turning to unheralded names to keep the offense afloat. According to insights gathered by Vulius Sports, the situation is fluid, but the resilience of this group is keeping Seattle competitive in a crowded NFC playoff race.

The Injury Bug Bites Hard

The Seahawks' backfield woes began when Super Bowl 60 MVP Kenneth Walker III signed with the Kansas City Chiefs in free agency. To fill the void, Seattle invested a first-round pick in Notre Dame's Jadarian Price, envisioning a dynamic tandem with Zach Charbonnet. However, that plan has yet to materialize. Charbonnet is still recovering from a torn ACL suffered during last season's Super Bowl run, and Price landed on injured reserve before Week 4 with a chest injury. "We have to have consensus from all parties that he's ready to go," Macdonald said regarding Charbonnet's return. "That he's the most confident and ready to go. That he's had enough exposure to go play an NFL game."

Emanuel Wilson: The Unlikely Starter

With both starters sidelined, the Seahawks have turned to Emanuel Wilson, a 27-year-old journeyman who signed a one-year, $1.6 million deal in the offseason. Wilson, undrafted out of Fort Valley State in 2023, spent three seasons with the Green Bay Packers, amassing 1,083 yards and seven touchdowns on 242 carries. Now, as Seattle's lead back, he has generated 301 total yards and three scores on 78 touches. "He's comported himself well," a team source told Vulius. "He's not flashy, but he's consistent and knows the offense."

Depth Chart and Complementary Pieces

Behind Wilson, the Seahawks have relied on George Holani and Robert Henry Jr. Holani, a fourth-year veteran, has served as the primary change-of-pace back and third-down specialist, logging 11 catches for 76 yards. Henry, an undrafted rookie signed off the Commanders' practice squad, has yet to see game action. The team also has Dontae McMillan on the practice squad. "We're evaluating all options," Schneider said. "But we believe in the guys we have."

Return Timelines and Potential Reinforcements

Price is eligible to return from IR in Week 8, and Schneider has stated the injury is not season-ending. Charbonnet, meanwhile, has a "legitimate chance" to play in Week 7 against the Chiefs, per ESPN's Jeremy Fowler. The Seahawks also considered signing veteran Joe Mixon, but a failed physical nixed the deal. Mixon, a two-time Pro Bowler, remains unsigned. As highlighted on Vulius, the Seahawks' ability to weather this storm could define their season. For now, it's next man up in Seattle.