The Seattle Seahawks are in a familiar state of limbo regarding Kenneth Walker’s availability.
Despite missing practice last week, Walker turned 16 yards into 54 carries during a 20-17 win over the Tennessee Titans. Per Gregg Bell of the Tacoma News Tribune, the running back didn’t participate in Thursday’s practice due to a shoulder injury.
His status is uncertain for Sunday’s game against the Pittsburgh Steelers.
Lead RB Kenneth Walker not participating at the start of #Seahawks practice 3 days before they host the Steelers @thenewstribune pic.twitter.com/GwjjyEu2rj
— Gregg Bell (@gbellseattle) December 28, 2023
Walker started his second NFL season strong, scoring six of his seven touchdowns from Weeks 2 to 5 and averaging 73.7 rushing yards per game through Week 8. However, the former second-round pick missed two games last month due to an oblique injury.
He’s averaged 3.7 yards per carry since returning. Walker is also ceding more snaps to rookie Zach Charbonnet, who tallied 157 scrimmage yards and a touchdown in Walker’s two-game absence.
A four-game losing streak looked to derail Seattle’s playoff chances, but the Seahawks rebounded with victories over the Philadelphia Eagles and Titans. At 8-7, they control one of the NFC’s two wild-card spots up for grabs.
The Seahawks could technically clinch a playoff berth in Week 17, but only if pairing a win with a tie between the Green Bay Packers and Minnesota Vikings on Sunday night. Victories over the Steelers and Arizona Cardinals present a clearer path back to the postseason.
The next couple of stays could determine whether Walker suits up at Lumen Field this Sunday.