The Seattle Seahawks got a big win on Saturday over their division-rival 49ers in the divisional round of the NFC playoffs, demolishing San Francisco 41-6 in emphatic fashion. But that victory came at a cost. Seahawks RB Zach Charbonnet tore his ACL during the game, meaning he’ll miss the rest of the postseason and potential the beginning of next season as well.
Charbonnet’s loss is a big blow to a powerful Seattle run game. The Seahawks lead the league in rushing yards per game and total missed tackles forced on runs, and Charbonnet was a big part of that success. On the season, he had 730 rushing yards and 12 touchdowns, adding 20 receptions for 144 yards as well.
In Charbonnet’s absence, the Seahawks will need more from lead RB Kenneth Walker III. On the year, he had 1,027 rushing yards and five touchdowns, to go along with 31 receptions for 282 yards. Walker dominated the 49ers in the playoffs, rushing for 116 yards and three touchdowns in the blowout win.
Seattle Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak on RB Zach Charbonnet’s Absence
GettySEATTLE, WASHINGTON – DECEMBER 18: Zach Charbonnet #26 of the Seattle Seahawks runs with the ball during overtime against the Los Angeles Rams at Lumen Field on December 18, 2025 in Seattle, Washington. (Photo by Steph Chambers/Getty Images)
The Seahawks have a huge game on Sunday against the Rams, with their division rivals coming to town for the NFC Championship Game. The winner gets a berth in the Super Bowl, and these teams split the regular season matchups by a total of three points.
With Charbonnet out, Seattle will rely on Walker heavily, and they’ll also look for production from backup RBs George Holani and Cam Akers. Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak spoke to the media on Thursday about their running back room.
“I think between George, Cam, we got guys that can play, you know?” Kubiak said. “We got some talented backs, and I think it needs to be said just how important Zach Charbonnet has been to our team this year and how much we’re going to miss him. When you think about, ‘What is a Seahawk?’ A guy that’s smart, tough, and dependable. That’s Zach Charbonnet. He’s one of the most impressive individuals I’ve been around, and a lot of our success has come because of his leadership this year. We’re gonna miss him.”
Seattle Seahawks OC Klint Kubiak on Coach’s Prep and RB Kenneth Walker III
“I think that’s our job as coaches, to get everybody ready throughout the entire season,” Kubiak continued. “So, look: we gotta go put it on tape this week, see how good we’ve been throughout the year. I think [Seahawks GM] John Schneider has done a really good job of giving us smart, dependable players below Zach [on the depth chart]. So I’m excited for their opportunity.”
“Yeah, [Kenneth Walker] — the proof is in the film. He’s played some really good football and we have all the confidence in the world in him to carry a heavier load. But it’s not all on him, he’s got help behind him. Obviously, we’re counting on him.”
Seahawks Coordinator Sends Strong Message on Zach Charbonnet Loss Before NFC Title Game