Fifteen NFL teams decided not to draft any running backs in the 2023 NFL Draft. Meanwhile, sixteen teams selected one running back, and the Seattle Seahawks drafted two. This article explains why the Seahawks made this decision and the rationale behind it.
Seattle Seahawks’ Double-Dipping Approach:
Despite already using a second-round pick on Kenneth Walker in 2022, the Seattle Seahawks drafted two running backs this year. The team selected Zach Charbonnet from UCLA in the second round (No. 52 overall) and Kenny McIntosh from Georgia in the seventh round (No. 237). Pete Carroll, the coach of the Seattle Seahawks, appeared on Seattle Sports Radio’s Bump and Stacy and explained that adding assets at the running back position was crucial. He also mentioned that the second round was an ideal spot to address their needs, given their depth at other positions. Carroll emphasized that running back is a crucial position for his team, and he respects it greatly. He believes that this new class puts the team in a better position.
Kenneth Walker’s Role and Injury Issues:
The Seahawks used the No. 41 pick last year to draft Walker, a strong and fast runner. Walker rushed for 1,050 yards and nine touchdowns, but he missed two full games due to injuries. The rest of the Seahawks RB corps missed time or was ineffective. Given Carroll’s preferred offensive plan, the inconsistencies at running back wouldn’t work. You could visibly see the coach’s frustration at points last year when the run game was stymied. Therefore, with only Walker and DeeJay Dallas signed before the draft, the Seahawks added more to the stable, aiming for consistency and depth.
Draft Picks Analysis:
The Seahawks drafted Zach Charbonnet in the second round. Charbonnet has good vision and can keep his balance through contact. Although he did not have impressive receiving stats during his four seasons in college, Carroll is confident in Charbonnet’s pass-catching skills. Carroll also mentioned that Charbonnet is an excellent pass protector. The Seahawks selected Kenny McIntosh in the seventh round for his versatility, and he is expected to be a shifty pass-catcher for the team. The hand-wringing from some Seahawks fans was expected when the club used a second-round pick on another RB, but it was a need entering the draft.
Conclusion:
The Seahawks found a home-run hitter in Walker, a consistent doubles-hitter in Charbonnet, and a potential shifty pass-catcher in McIntosh in the past two drafts. Given the injury issues experienced last season and the violent style Carroll prefers in his backs (which can lead to more injuries), it wasn’t surprising that the Seahawks chose a runner so high. The Seahawks hope that this double-dipping approach will provide the necessary depth and consistency for the running back position.