Linebacker RAS: Does It Matter? A Comprehensive Analysis
12/28/2024
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In Part 38 of our “Does It Matter?” series, we looked to solve the question of whether a Linebacker’s Relative Athletic Score
In fantasy football, Kenneth Walker of the Seattle Seahawks presents a unique case. His tenure with the Seahawks has showcased his explosive talent, but has also been a roller-coaster ride of production. This demands a closer analysis for fantasy managers navigating their drafts and rosters.
Walker burst onto the NFL scene with an impressive rookie season, tallying 1,050 yards and 9 touchdowns. These numbers, especially for a rookie, highlighted his potential as a lead back in Seattle’s offense. The hype began justifiably building for Walker’s future potential. Walker’s ability to break off big runs and find the end zone made him a sought-after option in fantasy football drafts. Specifically, in dynasty fantasy football drafts, where people were imagining a future of nothing but Walker.
The Seahawks’ decision to draft Zach Charbonnet with their second-round pick sent shockwaves through the NFL. This highlighted a potential shift in their backfield and the possibility that Charbonnet could take valuable touches away from Walker. Despite Walker’s solid rookie campaign, the introduction of Charbonnet created uncertainty around Walker’s role and production. In the following season, Walker’s numbers saw a slight decline. With 905 yards and 8 touchdowns, he was not at the level many had anticipated, although still respectable. The concern became more of whether he has reached his full potential already, or if there is more to come.
Walker’s finish as the 19th and 18th running back in fantasy football over his first two seasons tells a story of consistency but not of outstanding dominance. For fantasy managers, the key question revolves around value versus potential. Walker has shown he can lead the Seattle backfield, although the presence of Charbonnet and the Seahawks’ willingness to use a high draft pick on another running back only complicates Walker’s fantasy forecast.
Given the current situation, the advice for fantasy managers is to hold on Kenneth Walker. If you do not currently have him, do not pursue him as his current value is above what his production shows. His explosive playmaking ability is obvious. Although, until he can outperform the shadow cast by his own team’s draft decisions, caution is warranted. Walker’s average number production as the lead back offers a stable floor for fantasy teams, but the ceiling remains a question mark.
Zach Charbonnet’s presence on the Seahawks’ roster cannot be overlooked. An explosive back in his own right, Charbonnet’s ability to potentially lead the backfield adds a layer of complexity for fantasy managers considering Walker. This situation is a classic “wait and see,” with potential mid-season adjustments necessary based on how the Walker performs.
While not an outright buy in drafts due to the factors discussed, Walker is also not a player to write off. The recommendation for fantasy football enthusiasts is to hold Walker, monitor the situation closely, and be ready to leverage his explosive potential should the opportunity arise.
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