Seahawks Rule Out Zach Charbonnet for Upcoming Matchup Against Chiefs

The Seattle Seahawks will have to wait at least another week for the return of running back Zach Charbonnet. Head coach Mike Macdonald announced on Friday that Charbonnet will not play in Sunday's prime-time game against the Kansas City Chiefs, despite the player's recent progress in recovering from a torn ACL.

The decision comes just one day after Seattle activated Charbonnet from the physically unable to perform list. Because his 21-day practice window was expiring, the team had to make the roster move or risk losing him for the remainder of the season. However, Macdonald was quick to clarify that keeping Charbonnet sidelined does not mean he suffered any complications or setbacks with his surgically repaired knee.

"Zach's going to be out," Macdonald said during his Friday press conference. When asked if the running back encountered any trouble during practice, Macdonald provided an encouraging update. "No setback. No, no. If anything, it's going as good as we could hope it'd go," he added, explaining that the team is simply sticking to its established recovery timeline.

Charbonnet suffered the knee injury during Seattle's playoff victory over the San Francisco 49ers in January. After returning to practice on October 1, he was a full participant on Wednesday and Thursday ahead of the Kansas City matchup. Macdonald previously described the running back's recovery as remarkable, though Friday's update confirmed that the coaching staff prefers a cautious approach.

His absence leaves the Seahawks shorthanded in the backfield once again. Rookie running back Jadarian Price remains sidelined on injured reserve due to a chest injury, though Macdonald indicated that Price's practice window could open as early as next week. In the meantime, Seattle will continue to rely on running backs Emanuel Wilson and George Holani.

Charbonnet's eventual return will provide a major lift to the offense. Last season, he led the team with 730 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, serving as a vital physical presence and dependable pass protector. The Seahawks currently rank 18th in the league with an average of 107.2 rushing yards per game.

While Charbonnet remains out, the Seahawks received some positive news regarding their offensive line. Starting right guard Anthony Bradford is expected to return to action against the Chiefs after missing five games due to knee and hip issues. Macdonald stated that Bradford is expected to handle a full workload, helping reunite the starting five upfront.

Seattle's injury report also features several questionable players heading into the weekend. Linebackers Drake Thomas and Chazz Surratt have already been ruled out, while defensive back Nick Emmanwori, pass rusher DeMarcus Lawrence, linebacker Uchenna Nwosu, linebacker Connor O'Toole, and backup quarterback Drew Lock carry questionable designations. The Seahawks will reassess Charbonnet's readiness following another round of preparation next week.