Fantasy Football Running Backs: Optimism under Klint Kubiak
Many fantasy analysts are already pinpointing Kenneth Walker III as a value play because of the arrival of Klint Kubiak as the new offensive coordinator. The projected outside zone running scheme and added emphasis on the ground game could point the way to Walker delivering his best fantasy season yet.
"Moving into this year, we're looking to really get after it in the run game, specifically." right tackle Abe Lucas said about Kubiak’s offensive implementation. 'We're running the ball. We put a fullback in the backfield. We're trying to be elite at very few things, but those few things are what the offense is going to be based around, and that's the run game."
Walker is an established fantasy football draft target because of his upside and potential to score from anywhere on the field. He has also progressively improved as an inside runner throughout his career so far, becoming a more complete back. Last season, Walker averaged 16.5 Fantasy Points Per Game, which ranked 12th among running backs. In the revised Seahawks offense, he at least has the potential to finish as a high-end fantasy RB2 in 2025.
This early in the year, it's best to consult Average Draft Positions from high-stakes formats, as competitors have already started drafting on platforms such as the National Fantasy Football Championship (NFFC). Walker is currently RB17 on the latest NFFC Average Draft Position report. That is a mid-RB2 fantasy draft range, which does position him as a value pick if he can finish as a higher-end RB2.
Zach Charbonnet can also perform well when needed to work in an expanded role, as his physical running style should suit him well in the revamped offense. He registered 12-plus fantasy points in six games last season, and 17-plus in three. If you can draft Charbonnet in the ninth or 10th round to pair him with Walker on the roster, the Seahawks' backfield will be locked up for fantasy purposes.
With a healthy Lucas combining with Charles Cross at left tackle and 2025 first-round pick Grey Zabel joining the offensive line on the inside, the foundation for a respectable running game should be in place. New offensive line coach John Benton worked with Kubiak in New Orleans last season, and he has been coaching in the NFL since 2003.