The Seahawks made a lot of major changes this offseason. However, if there’s one thing fans should expect to see continue in 2022 it’s the team’s commitment to a run-first offense. With former franchise quarterback Russell Wilson now suiting up for the Broncos, Seattle has a lot less firepower in the passing game than it used to. That’s good news for people who are inclined to establish the run and also for fantasy football owners looking to get in on this running game.
According to Mike Dugar at the Athletic, running back Ken Walker is the team’s fantasy breakout candidate this year.
“Walker might end up as the most productive running back on Seattle’s roster when it’s all said and done. The rookie second-round pick was a big play waiting to happen at Michigan State, leading the nation last fall with over 1,000 yards after contact. The 41st pick in the draft is already the de facto RB2 behind Rashaad Penny because of Chris Carson’s neck injury. Because Penny has an extensive injury history, it’s expected Walker will earn some starts and make the most of those opportunities in Seattle’s run-first offense.”
Walker certainly has a strong case for this title, as does tight end Noah Fant. Our pick for fantasy breakout player would be Rashaad Penny, though.
Remember, Penny finished the 2021 season on a tear as the most productive rusher in the entire league. Despite not seeing any meaningful action for the first 12 weeks of the season, Penny ended the year with just under 750 yards and six touchdowns on the ground.
It’s probably too much to hope that Penny stays healthy for an entire 17 games. However, we’re expecting him to be RB1 on the depth chart to begin the year, which means effectively this team’s offense will run through him. Until Penny gets injured or Walker starts to catch up in the carries department, our money is on No. 20 to be the top fantasy producer for the Seahawks outside wide receiver D.K. Metcalf.
