Did the Seahawks Make a Mistake Gambling at Running Backs?

Could there be concerns in the backfield with the Seattle Seahawks?

Aug 15, 2026; Seattle, Washington, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back George Holani (36) carries the ball against the Dallas Cowboys during the first half at Lumen Field. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Seattle Seahawks had a tough offseason start, losing key contributors, including Super Bowl MVP and running back Kenneth Walker III. It didn’t help that Zach Charbonnet remains out for a portion of the 2026 season as he recovers from an ACL tear. The Seahawks made the running back position one of the top team priorities this offseason by drafting Jadarian Price with the first-round, 32nd overall pick in the 2026 NFL Draft.

They also took a gamble by betting on third-string back George Holani and former Green Bay Packers backup Emanuel Wilson. All three backs have been tested and inserted into the Seahawks’ system, but there are early signs the gamble is a bad draw. The biggest stress is on Wilson and Holani. It is still too early to worry about Price as his tests come in the regular season.

Emanuel Wilson Already Showing Signs of Skepticism

Jul 25, 2026; Renton, WA, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back Emanuel Wilson (27) and offensive coordinator Brian Fleury after the first training camp at Virginia Mason Athletic Center. Mandatory Credit: Steven Bisig-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

The Seahawks’ biggest free-agent addition at running back this offseason is a 5-10, 226-pounder who rushed for 496 yards and three touchdowns on 125 carries. He got a bump in carries with Josh Jacobs being injured.

There were concerns about Wilson heading into OTAs, mini-camps and training camps that he would make the Seahawks’ offense limited, as he doesn’t possess the explosiveness or speed to be on the field for non-power plays.

There was also a risk for him with potential injuries. After Price was out with leg soreness, Holani and Wilson took some of the first-team reps. Shortly after, Wilson started dealing with a hamstring injury and didn’t play in the Seahawks’ first preseason game against the Dallas Cowboys.

While Holani and Price continue to split the first-team reps, Wilson doesn’t get the reps or the attention needed. There isn’t an indication from coaches that Wilson will play in the second game against the Tennessee Titans.

George Holani Needs to Show His Potential in Games

Feb 8, 2026; Santa Clara, CA, USA; Seattle Seahawks running back George Holani (36) against the New England Patriots during Super Bowl LX at Levi's Stadium. Mandatory Credit: Mark J. Rebilas-Imagn Images | IMAGN IMAGES via Reuters Connect

One of the biggest attributes Seahawks coaches love about Holani is his work ethic and how he developed as a former undrafted player. He has shown flashes and impressed coaches because the expectations with him were so low, backing up Walker and Charbonnet. Rather than the team getting replacements, the Seahawks took the biggest gamble on Holani to show the team can utilize a group of hard-working running backs.

Holani has looked solid in practices, especially during training camp and preseason. He got one of his biggest tests yet by being the outright first-string running back in the preseason game against the Cowboys last week. While the offensive line didn’t play up to standards, he didn’t have the best results, rushing for 42 yards on 12 carries.

He should be one of the top backs as the Seahawks take on the Tennessee Titans. His performance against the Titans should relieve some stress in the backfield.

— Enjoy free coverage of the Super Bowl champions from Seattle Seahawks On SI —

Sign Up For the Seahawks Daily Digest - OnSI’s Free Seattle Seahawks Newsletter