One Seahawks undrafted free agent might have a chance to be a star in Week 2

There is a great likelihood that the Seattle Seahawks best running back, Kenneth Walker III, will miss Week 2 versus the New England Patriots with an oblique injury. Walker is listed as doubtful for the game. Starting in his spot is expected to be Zach Charbonnet who has a completely different running style and has not been as productive in his limited chances.

Backing up Charbonnet will be Kenny McIntosh who not only does not have a career NFL rushing attempt but he has never even played an offensive snap. McIntosh looked splendid in the preseason but transposing that success to regular season games is not easy.

On Saturday, the Seahawks elevated running back George Holani from the practice squad to the active roster. Holani was signed as an undrafted free agent this offseason and seemingly played well enough in training camp and the preseason that he might have made the active roster when cuts were made before Week 1.

George Holani could be the Seahawks latest undrafted free agent success

Holani did miss a game in the preseason due to an injury, and that is something he struggled with in college as well. He was productive - he averaged 5.2 yards a carry and had 26 rushing touchdowns, but he was often hurt and this is likely the biggest reason he was not drafted. Possibly more surprising is that no other team chose to pick Holani up after the roster cuts were one.

Because Charbonnet is unlikely to play every down against the Patriots, McIntosh and Holani might get their chances to play quite a few reps. McIntosh is the more explosive back, but he might not be able to grind out the tough yards in the way Holani can. Should something happen to Charbonnet, late in the game the Seahawks might call on Holani to help close out the game.

The question could then become whether should Seattle move Holani back to the practice squad or keep him on the active roster to give Seattle more running back depth. Unfortunately, running backs take a lot of punishment, and keeping the same group healthy all season is very difficult to do. Holani could be a valuable piece for the rest of the season.

More Seattle Seahawks news and analysis: