Seahawks running back overcomes late-week scare to suit up against Titans in crucial Week 12 matchup
Seattle Seahawks fans received welcome news regarding running back Kenneth Walker’s availability for today’s crucial Week 12 matchup against the Tennessee Titans. Despite a late-week injury scare that raised concerns about his status, the talented ball carrier is expected to take the field and potentially deliver a strong performance in favorable conditions.
Late addition to injury report sparks concern
Walker’s name appearing on Friday’s injury report caught many observers by surprise after he participated fully in practice sessions earlier in the week. The running back completed both Wednesday and Thursday practices without any limitations, suggesting he was healthy and ready for Sunday’s game.
However, Friday brought unexpected developments when Walker experienced a glute issue that prompted the team’s medical staff to list him as questionable for the contest. This late-emerging concern typically raises red flags for fantasy football managers and fans alike, as injuries surfacing just before game day often indicate significant problems.
The timing proved particularly worrisome given Walker’s importance to Seattle’s offensive game plan. The Seahawks rely heavily on their ground attack to control tempo and set up play-action opportunities, making Walker’s presence essential for their offensive success.
Multiple sources confirm expected availability
ESPN’s Adam Schefter reported that Walker should be available for today’s game despite the questionable designation. According to sources, the glute injury that emerged Friday is not expected to prevent the running back from suiting up against Tennessee.
Head coach Mike Macdonald addressed Walker’s status during the week, indicating the team was simply being cautious with their valuable offensive weapon. The coach characterized the situation as precautionary rather than a serious concern, expressing confidence that Walker would be ready to contribute on Sunday.
Macdonald’s reassuring comments align with the team’s recent practice of managing player health carefully throughout the season. The Seahawks have shown willingness to rest key contributors when necessary, making their confidence in Walker’s availability a positive indicator for his actual condition.
Increased workload could be coming
Beyond simply playing, Walker may see expanded opportunities in the backfield following recent strong performances. Macdonald acknowledged that the running back deserves additional touches based on his recent production, suggesting a potential shift in the team’s backfield distribution.
Walker has operated in a frustrating timeshare with fellow running back Zach Charbonnet throughout the 2025 season, limiting his fantasy football value and overall statistical output. However, his recent performance may have earned him a larger share of carries moving forward.
His most recent outing produced 20.1 fantasy points, representing his best single-game performance of the current campaign. That explosive showing demonstrated the upside Walker possesses when given sufficient opportunities to showcase his skills.
Favorable matchup enhances outlook
The Titans present an attractive opponent for running backs this season, currently surrendering the fifth-most fantasy points per game to the position. Their defensive struggles against the run create opportunities for opposing backfields to accumulate significant yardage and find the end zone.
Tennessee’s vulnerability defending rushers aligns perfectly with Seattle’s expected game script. The Seahawks enter as favorites and should play with a lead for much of the afternoon, typically leading to increased rushing attempts as teams try to control clock and preserve advantages.
This combination of factors makes Walker an appealing option for fantasy managers facing difficult lineup decisions. His talent, the favorable matchup and potential for increased touches all point toward a productive afternoon.
Fantasy football considerations
Walker enters Week 12 ranked as the 25th-highest scoring running back in fantasy points per contest, placing him squarely in flex territory for most fantasy formats. While not an automatic start as a top-tier running back, he offers legitimate upside when circumstances align favorably.
Today’s circumstances appear particularly promising given the matchup dynamics and coaching staff comments about expanding his role. Fantasy managers should feel confident inserting Walker into lineups as a high-end flex play with elite upside potential.
The main risk involves the ongoing timeshare situation with Charbonnet, which could limit Walker’s ceiling if the coaching staff continues splitting carries relatively evenly. However, recent indications suggest Walker may be earning a larger workload share through strong performances.
For fantasy managers still uncertain about starting Walker, consider the combination of favorable game script, weak opponent run defense and coaching staff praise as compelling reasons to trust him in Week 12 lineups. His ceiling remains high enough to deliver league-winning performances when everything clicks.
Source: ESPN
