The Seahawks (8-5) are riding a four-game win streak and sit atop the NFC West, but now face a formidable challenge with the 9-4 Packers visiting Lumen Field for Sunday Night Football.
Before fully shifting focus to that matchup, it’s time to dive into the weekly mailbag and address some fan questions.
Thanks to everyone who submitted questions this week! If I didn’t get to yours, I apologize, but feel free to keep sending them to Seahawks.com/mailbag.
Donna from Raleigh, North Carolina asks, “How will the Seahawks use Charbonnet once K9 is healthy?”
And @andrewhobson.bsky.social asks, “When Walker has been healthy, he has dominated the snap count and carries.
Do you think Charbonnet’s career day will change that at all? I’m sure Walker will remain the main man, but could we see a more balanced usage of the two backs?”
A: There are worse problems to have in the NFL than deciding how to split carries between two talented running backs, and that’s the situation the Seahawks could face when Kenneth Walker III returns.
Zach Charbonnet had a breakout performance last week with Walker sidelined, rushing for a career-high 134 yards and two touchdowns, while also adding 59 receiving yards.
While Walker is unlikely to lose his starting role, head coach Mike Macdonald has shown he’s open to rewarding players who step up.
Charbonnet’s big game could lead to him earning more touches even when Walker is back, but it’s still expected that Walker will see the bulk of the workload.
For that balance to work, the Seahawks need to keep running the ball effectively. In games where the run game struggles, there are naturally fewer opportunities for both backs.
But if Seattle continues to run well and play with a lead, there should be plenty of work for both players.
@seattlechef.bsky.social asks, “I’m liking what I’m seeing from the O-line? Has it mainly been that we’ve gotten better in the run game with the addition of Olu Oluwatimi, Sataoa Laumea, and Abe Lucas?”
A: You’re not alone in being impressed by the offensive line, which was instrumental in helping the Seahawks rush for a season-high 176 yards last Sunday.
It was also the first game this season where Geno Smith wasn’t sacked.
The additions of Oluwatimi, Laumea, and Lucas have been crucial.
Lucas returned mid season from the physically unable to perform list, Oluwatimi stepped in at center after Connor Williams’ surprise retirement, and Laumea has taken over at right guard following Anthony Bradford’s injury.
However, just as important as individual contributions has been the continuity of having the same starting five on the line for several weeks.
Head coach Macdonald emphasized that continuity has been key: “Having the same five guys together allows for better communication and consistency.
We’re seeing them play with more confidence, and their hard work is paying off.”
@MrEd315 asks, “What should the Seahawks request from Santa to get through the final four weeks of the season?”
A: Beyond the obvious answers like wins and good health, one big wish would be continued improvement from the offensive line.
Sunday showed how a strong running game and solid pass protection can elevate the offense.
Keeping that momentum will be crucial for Geno Smith and the entire team down the stretch.
Defensively, the Seahawks have been excellent, especially with their ability to force turnovers.
They’ve had takeaways in seven straight games, including multiple turnovers in the last two, and have scored four defensive touchdowns this season.
If they can maintain that level of play, the Seahawks will be a tough team to beat in the final weeks of the season.
